About James G Miles

“I feel that Galway and the West of Ireland are virtually in my blood. My father first introduced me to Galway, Salthill and Barna when I was a child. I remember catching my first mackerel on Salthill beach when I was 12 years old. The water was literally alive with fish. Since that time Galway has always done it for me.

I love the mix of rural and coastal Ireland. The sea is very important to me; I am intrigued by its movement, colour, danger and calmness. I take inspiration from the struggle for survival that coastal peoples endure. In particular, I have been influenced by the history of the sailing work boats and the Island people around the area of Galway Bay. The Galway Hookers hold a special magic for me. I love to see their majestic ruggedness as they sail 'against the odds' at almost impossible angles. These are the images, which come to the canvas through my memories, thoughts and imagination."

The late Ian Hill, Author, highly respected Art Critic and Broadcaster - On James G Miles:

---“James’ working life is dominated and seduced by both the waves’ charm and its power and danger. It is no wonder that James’ paintings and sculptures are empowered by the almost incalculable powers of the sea.

From their thick impastos of richly textured and coloured paints you can all but taste the very salt of the spray, wipe it’s pearls from sun kissed brow, hear the thump of the wave’s crest on the bow, brace for the shudder of going about under the whack of a soaked and heavy canvas sail, the muscle powered heft of rope and rudder, cleat and anchor.”--

In 2007 James and Ian were commissioned by a County Down publisher to produce the book “Lecale – St. Patrick’s County Down.” Words, Ian Hill and paintings by James G Miles.

James' profile as an artist has increased dramatically over the past 10 years. His work is held in private collections throughout Ireland, UK, Germany, Holland, France, Switzerland, South Africa, Sweden, Australia, New Zealand, USA and Canada. Among his collectors are South Eastern Education and Library Board for Northern Ireland, a former Miss Columbia, Sean Kelly, The President of GAA Ireland, Directors of photography on major films, Radio and TV/producers and well known media personalities. James takes great pride from the fact that one of his paintings graces the walls of the offices of the Galway Hooker Association in Carraroe Co. Galway.