Charcoal Zen

Charcoal Drawings by James Franssen

I've always been interested in artistic things since I can remember. I can recall, as a baby, looking through my crib bars at a tapestry my Mom had hanging on the wall and just being in awe. I can recall how some paintings brought out strong feelings and influenced how I looked at life and everything around me.

I am a portrait artist who has lived in Eugene for 14 years. I primarily do portraits in charcoal, but I'm currently experimenting in sculpting with clay, and painting with acrylics. I draw portraits, by commission, from photographs. Many of my drawings can take up to 14 hours to finish, and I prefer to draw from photographs since I wouldn't expect someone (or someone's pet) to sit for that long.

I often have a vendors booth at art festivals, horse shows, dog shows, cat shows, or any other venue that will lend well toward what I do. Sometimes people will walk up to me and give me a photograph on commission, but it is just as easy to send one to me through email. I guarantee my work, as well.