Jim Eppler received a BFA in Studio Art from Texas Tech University. He shows his art in numerous galleries in the United States. The two things that have consistently fascinated James Eppler throughout his life are art and animals. The expression of his fascination with wildlife has taken many forms. As a child he kept all kinds of pets and split his free time between hiking in the desert looking for “critters” and drawing and painting them. Later, his respect for animals took the form of becoming a vegetarian for a few years. When he returned to eating meat, he chose to participate in the process by hunting primarily with bow and arrow. By entering into the predator/prey relationship, he found an even deeper appreciation for nature’s order. In a favorite quote, Henry Beston said, “for the animals shall not be measured by man. In a world older and more complete than ours they are more finished and complete. Gifted with extensions of the senses we have lost or never attained, living by voices we shall never hear.” Eppler’s artistic expression has also taken other forms. Besides sculpting and painting, he has developed talents as a photographer and musician. Explorations into a variety of media, techniques and styles have led him to a range of work that he finds more fulfilling than any single style. While subjects ranging from people and music to still life and landscapes inspire him, wildlife continues to be the most consistent inspiration for Eppler’s sculpture and paintings.