Silversmith/Enamellist/Flint KnapperJames Bowden

James’ artwork reflects nature and the stories of people through time. He is influenced by a lifetime of exploring the outdoors in California as a career paleontologist as well as passion for archaeology, history, biology and geology. These are all interconnected with fascinating stories!

His work exhibits a wide array of techniques such as stone cutting, silver overlay, granulation, numerous casting methods, glass fusing, various enameling processes and over 40 years of developing flintknapping techniques for his unique style. James is driven to try new things, resulting in a constantly evolving body of work.

James integrates varied materials into his art. Locally collected stones, exotic gemstones, fossils, leather, wood, glass, plastic, iron, copper, sterling silver and gold help tell the stories of our regional environment in memorable jewelry.

James’ art has appeared in many publications and won local, regional, and international awards.

Awards:

• Gail Brownfield Memorial Award (Jewelry), February 2025
  56^th Multi-Media Mini Show, Redlands Art Association
  Recognizes the outstanding jewelry entry, for “The Miner’s Cat” sterling silver necklace with a ringtail and stalactite cabochon
• First Place Award in 3D Art, September 2024
  Water in the Desert Art Expo, Joshua Tree Gallery of Contemporary Art
  Recognizes the best representation of the themes “Desert and Water” in the form of 3D art, for “Desert Reflections” sterling silver necklace with a Tecopa desert pupfish and Royston turquoise cabochon.
• Honorable Mention Award, December 2014
  2014 Dichroic By Design Contest, Coatings by Sandberg, Inc.

International competition. Recognizes innovative artistic expression with dichroic glass.