James Meger couldn’t remember a time in his life that he didn’t want to be an artist. At an early age, James dreamed of combining nature and his love of art into a career. His rural upbringing, along with his love of nature were the primary inspirations for his paintings. 

After completing his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, James served as a combat officer in Vietnam for 14 months and upon his return from the war, he ended up teaching in Minnesota. With a great deal of outside encouragement, James gave up teaching to pursue his early dream of being a painter. Six weeks after retiring, James won the 1980 Minnesota State Duck Stamp Competition. His career took off rapidly and James accumulated numerous awards for his wildlife paintings, including over 15 Best of Show and Popular Choice awards at national art shows throughout the country.

James worked diligently with conservation organizations and was awarded the Pheasants Forever Artist of the Year award 6 times. Tragically James succumbed to cancer in 2011. He is survived by his wife and daughter. James’s unique spirit and his beautiful wildlife paintings will live on forever.