Special Finds

Occasionally we uncover some special art work in some out-of the -way places. We present those works here.

James R. Christensen

James R. (Jim) Christensen of Yamika, WA, is a graduate of the University of Idaho where he majored in zoology.  While attending the University he was enrolled in several of Earl J. Larrison’s classes, including mammalogy. Mr. Christensen received his master’s degree in biology from Emporia State University in Emporia, Kansas.

Mr. Christensen’s life-long hobby has been wildlife photography, especially the flora & fauna of the Pacific Northwest. He then started illustrating the mammals of the Northwest in pen & ink. Seventy-three of his drawings are in the book, Mammals of the Pacific Northwest: A Pictorial Introduction*, by James R. Christensen and Earl J. Larrison.

This signed and numbered collection was produced by the artist from his original pen & ink drawings of 1981 – 1982 for inclusion in the book. Works dated 1983 were created after the book’s publication. All the prints are testaments to Mr. Christensen’s expert drawing technique, his strength as a graphic artist and his understanding of his subjects: their behavior & environment. The drawings allow the viewer to meet the subjects eye to eye and appreciate their daily struggles for survival.

Jeannette G. Turcotte
April 17, 2008

*Ref: Mammals of the Pacific Northwest: A Pictorial Introduction
  by James R. Christensen & Earl J. Larrison
  University Press of Idaho 1982
  ISBN 0-89301-085-5
  Library of Congress No. 82-60054