Page 13 - Senior Link Magazine Winter 2024 - Online Magazine

LOCAL LEGENDS

been fascinated with different techniques and textures. 47 solo exhibitions and 172 group exhibitions around the
His work represents the unique influences in his life— world—including one in July 2024 in the Dr. Robert Neff
including his time in Asia. He is known for perfecting and Louise Wilson Arnold Gallery at The Museum of
the craft of double-walled vessels—which gives the pots Texas Tech University. Additionally, his work is featured
a feeling of mystery and voluptuousness, while allowing in 25 permanent collections. Locally, his work can be seen
the large pieces to be fired without cracking. He enjoys at the Charles Adams Gallery. He is the author of several
experimenting with alternative firing techniques and books and numerous articles.
creating radiant pieces that often feature an iridescent
rainbow of color and luster from gold and platinum. Though now retired from TTU, Watkins still averages 30
in-studio hours a week. Sometimes he’s producing, and
Watkins has received honors and awards too numerous other times, contemplating. This time of reflection often
to list here. You may view a comprehensive record results in new vessels, based on drawings of existing
at www.jcwclayworks.com. Some of the most recent pieces where he alters the contour of the forms and
include the 2019 Texas Master Award, presented by changes the movement and rhythm of the appendages
the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft; the 2023 on the rims of the pieces.
Texas 3D Artist of the Year, presented by the Texas State
Legislature and the Texas Commission on the Arts; the Watkins recharges his creativity by traveling, camping,
November 2023 Lubbock City Council recognition for and hiking with his wife and dogs.
outstanding contributions to the community; and on
October 3, 2024, James Watkins was inducted into the
West Texas Walk of Fame. His work has been featured in
"The job of the artist is always to
deepen the mystery." Francis Bacon

Watkins and Wife, Dr. Luisa Florez, attending the opening
ceremony at the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American
Art Museum in Washington, DC where his piece “Communion” is
in the permanent collection

Lubbock Senior Link 13