Surreal canvas painting by Val James in Ottawa

I’m James - a multidisciplinary visual artist driven by energy, emotion, and the power of storytelling through paint. My work lives at the intersection of canvas, murals, and live painting. I’m inspired by movement, music, human connection, and the raw beauty of everyday moments. Whether I’m creating in a studio or painting live in front of a crowd, I chase that feeling where everything flows and the art takes on a life of its own. I love creating pieces that feel alive — bold, expressive, and layered with intention. Murals let me transform spaces and leave something lasting behind, while live painting brings a different kind of electricity — it’s spontaneous, immersive, and deeply connected to the moment. Canvas work gives me the freedom to slow things down and build depth, detail, and emotion. My style blends instinct with control. I’m confident in my ability to adapt — from large-scale public work to more intimate pieces — while maintaining a strong visual identity. I pay attention to composition, color balance, and movement, but I also trust my intuition and let the process guide me. At the core of it all, I create because it’s how I connect — with people, with environments, and with something bigger than myself. Every piece is an opportunity to evoke feeling, spark conversation, and leave an impression that lasts.