The Path Home by James Schultz
Painting
24x36
 
I find my greatest inspiration in the innumerable variety of myths and legends throughout the course of human history. Because I believe these stories transcend any one time or location, I will often place the heroes, gods and monsters of these stories in environments far from their origins. I might find Odin on a park bench or the Greek sphinx making its home along a modern Highway. In placing the supernatural in mundane places, I hope to breathe life into these ancient tales by eliciting an unsettled reaction from the viewer.

Sometimes people perceive the work far differently than my original intention. I often find their interpretations very illuminating. For once a painting is completed, res ipsa loquitur (the thing speaks for itself).
 
About Judge James Schultz:
James Schultz is a Long Island–based visual artist and illustrator whose work is inspired by myths, legends, and timeless stories from across cultures. By placing legendary figures and ancient symbols into contemporary, everyday environments, he invites viewers to see familiar settings through a mythic lens—bridging the gap between the past and the present.
 
He holds a BA in History from Albright, a BFA in Illustration from Pratt Institute, and an MA in Art Education from Dowling College. With a background in both fine art and teaching, Schultz combines narrative richness with strong visual storytelling. His illustrations have been published, and his paintings have been exhibited widely throughout Long Island, including at the Long Island Museum, the Heckscher Museum, the Islip Museum, the Nassau County Museum of Art, Mills Pond Gallery, St. Joseph’s University, Art League of Long Island, MOCA L.I., and BAFFA.
 
In addition to his studio work, Schultz teaches high school art, where he inspires and mentors young artists to develop their skills in drawing and painting.