Jim McGulpin’s vibrant paintings have been a welcome sight at the Celebration of Fine Art since 1995. In addition to Jim’s great art catching your eye, you may have met one of his wonderful schnauzers who frequently join him at the tent.

Jim acknowledges he was born an artist and at age eleven found his life’s passion when his own zinnia seed plantings bloomed to explode his senses and pop on canvas. Encouraged by his family, whose heritage is traced back to 1780 on Mackinac Island, Michigan, Jim perfected his skills at the Banff School of Fine Art in Canada where he is honored that his art lives in their permanent collection. His collectors now span three continents.

Jim’s larger than life flower paintings burst with vibrant colors allowing the viewer to almost sense the sweet fragrance of each gorgeous stem. His attention to detail brings out the passion of his subject permitting it to live forever.

Jim’s other passion is the opera, not as a performer but as a Metropolitan Opera supporter. Traveling to New York to fill his opera thirst, he recently attended Tan Dun’s epic opera “The First Emperor” with Plăcido Domingo, Verdi’s “Mac Beth”, and Donizetti’s “La Fille du Régiment”. According to Jim’s, “The First Emperor” was absolutely outstanding and to put it on your list as a “must see”.