What is the purpose of education? There can be numerous responses to this question. Some would say education serves to make us intelligent, or to help us be more confident, or to ready the student body for joining the workforce. All these will lead to a successful and progressive society. Most of us have gone through the cycle of education and smoothly merged into the large workforce pool. But few of us found it very challenging and faced lot of difficulties due to the education system still not catering to all the needs of the students who are differently abled. Jim who is diagnosed with specific learning disabilities faced lot of challenges during his early education and ultimately found the power of art which guaranteed him freedom of expression. Art has become a constant part of his life and has been a solace to him. His intelligent and amazing work on various media sets him apart. All are amazed by his innovative, magical world of art and visualization. He has work in both private and commercial collections in Ireland, England, Germany, Estonia, Lithuania, New Zealand, America, and Canada and exhibited work in Ireland and Brittany in France.

How has art played an important role in your life? What is your favourite creation so far and why?J:  Art has always been a constant part of my life, and no matter what life had to throw at me, it has been my solace. I have always had an interest in creating art. I can’t say that I have a favorite piece of work that I have created, as each piece brings its own challenges. When I’m finishing a piece, I’m already planning a new piece or two in my head. I find if I have a deep interest in a piece and it’s a challenge, I could lose myself in it and time doesn’t even register with me, I’ll be completely engrossed in it. And even when I’m not working on it, I’m working-out problems in my head, in relation to it.

Can you tell us more about “HOLISM ART”? What was the idea behind “‘Fighting with Words’” holism art?J: “Holism Art” is a name I came up with, for my art. People with dyslexia think and view and experience the world holistically, and are primarily picture thinkers. We use a picture or feeling based reasoning process to solve problems rather than a verbal one. From this thought process, we develop many unique abilities. For this reason and others, I believe ‘Holism Art’ is the appropriate name for my art.
“Fighting with words” It is a self-portrait of my battle with words. I created the sculpture ‘Fighting with Words’ when I got frustrated with the extremely long hours I was spending doing research and writing for my essays.

You have used various mediums to express your emotions. Which medium is more challenging to use and why?J: When I have a concept for a piece, I then decide on which medium to use. I will usually use a medium that I feel will convey the concept best.
Because I’m self-taught, I find oil paint or painting in general a great challenge, and really enjoy working with them. I love the challenge of trying to create a three dimensional image on a two dimensional surface. I also experience colours differently, because of light-sense; so I use short-wave (Blue) and medium-wave (Green) lens fused together to calm the effect of the light.

Who is your favourite artist and which creation do you like the most and why?J: There are so many artists of whom I admire; I really couldn’t pick one above the other. The first painting that really impressed me when I was young and still does to this day. Is a painting called Domino (1886) by Frank Bramley. The painting depicts a quiet interlude in a game of Dominoes between two seamstresses. The muted and almost monochromatic colour range of the painting adds to the feeling of timelessness. He captured all the different hues of white and how the light falls on the cloth and affects each piece, to perfection. It is an amazing piece. What is something that you wish for?

What is something that you wish for?J: I wish the world was more inclusive of all people. No matter what their difference is.

What is your favourite place to visit? What do you love about that place?J: I suppose my favourite place would have to be Venice in Italy. I first went there because of my interest in Titian. I love going back there, because of its unique position on water; the light plays off the water and even reflects onto the colours of the buildings. I also appreciate it for its history.

What are your other hobbies?J: I would listen to a lot of Music of all different genres.

Who is your inspiration?J: People who every day, face challenges in their lives, whether large or small and never give up.

How can art play an important role for our special children?J:  I think art can be their voice; it can communicate to all levels of society. As the saying goes: “a picture is worth a thousand words,” Art can open the doors of expression for them, whether through drawing, painting, sculpture, music, dance, or writing, just to name a few. Art can communicate for them. Art is also a great healer and can improve self esteem. When people give praise and encouragement to a child for their art, it will build their self worth.

Any special message for our community?J: Don't worry whether others think your art is good or not. That is only that person’s personal taste, and everyone has different taste. Don’t worry about other people’s work, once you do the best you can, that is all that matters. Remember ‘there is no right or wrong when it comes to making art, making sure that you have fun, is the most important part’.