James Michael Smith
James Michael Smith, 8/1949 – 2/8/2022
Artist
James is survived by his loving wife of 53 years and best friend, Mary C Smith, and his mother Alda Mae (Reynolds) Smith, his brothers Ronald (Sharon) Smith & Steven (Sherri) Smith, as well as loving extended family members: nephews, nieces, brother & sister in laws. He is preceded in death by his father Charles P Smith & sister Charlene Pieschel. His departure is felt by all who knew his kindness & loved him to include his very loyal friends and dedicated Art patrons.
James (Jim to some) knew from the age of 5 that he would be an artist. An Artist he was, there were no limits to his creative endeavors. He attended the University of Kansas graduating with a Bachelors of Fine Art followed by a Masters of Fine Art from the University of Illinois. James began his University Professor career teaching Fine Art as a Grad student at the University of Illinois, followed by the University of Manitoba, University of IL, Macomb, University of MO, St. Louis, & adjunct Professor at St. Louis Community Colleges: Florissant, Meramec, Forest Park and Fontbonne University. He departed teaching to focus full time on creating & selling his art work. He still receives letters of appreciation from former students.
Words can never do justice to describe James creative abilities. Making paintings was his passion, he had an amazing studio and his dedication to Art, research & creativity was limitless. A good friend stated: “He wasn’t just a great artist but one of the nicest people I’ve ever met”. Another loyal friend said: “Jim not only made beautiful art, he had art in his soul. His work is displayed in many private & public collections across the USA: Chicago, St. Louis, The St. Louis City Center, Jewish community centers in St. Louis, Kansas City, Denver, Omaha & St. Paul.
While it is not up to date, earlier personal works can be seen on the website Jamesmsmithart.com
James interests included reading, researching and learning. His linage includes American Indian relatives, many of his works capture his interest in the American Indian culture. James personal collections included his passion for motorcycles plus a quality sea shell collection. James loved his motorcycles; he found excitement & comfort in his solo rides. Along with his wife Mary they enjoyed hiking, especially in the Arizona desert.
When James became interested in a subject, he researched & studied until he had a sound understanding of the subject at hand. He had a keen sense of humor and could always make you laugh. James’ ability to create art was boundless, he was intelligent, extremely prolific & kept his work fresh by always growing, researching & expanding his abilities. James will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Pictures of James along with a few images of his work are attached.
A celebration of life will be forthcoming in the near future as James’ loyal Art Patrons are organizing an Exhibition of James paintings. If you are interested in attending, please send your e-mail address to crows197272@gmail.com When the memorial art exhibition plans are finalized, you will receive information on the exhibition via e-mail.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Siteman cancer center or the charity of your choice.
A wonderful tribute, a beautiful love. We will miss you Jim. 💔
I knew Jim and Mary when I was on the faculty at the University of Missouri-St Louis. He was a great, very interesting guy. We’ve been out of touch for a long time, but I’m delighted at the success he had after leaving UMSL, and saddened by the news of his passing.
So many wonderful memories of studio visits and exhibiting together. Our time with Jim and Mary will always be remembered as just good times for all. So many wonderful years, so few words …
m.
We always admired Jim, and his work at the University of Illinois. We moved into the same house on Hill Street in Champagne-Urbana after you and Jim returned home. It is evident that Jim’s passion to create continued thru out his life. We so sad to hear of his passing.