Born in Morristown, New Jersey, James received his BA Degree from William Paterson University and Master’s Degrees from Penn State University (Painting/Printmaking) and the University of Iowa (Printmaking) where he studied with the noted printmaker, Mauricio Lasansky. Dormer is an Emeritus Professor of Printmaking at Colorado State University. His work has been exhibited in over 140 National and International juried and invitational exhibitions. Included in this group are prints selected by curators from NYC’s major art museums including MOMA, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Whitney Museum and the Brooklyn Museum. James has been a member of the Boston Printmakers since 2007.

While the essence of my creative work is found in nature, it is not an attempt to literally portray the local landscape. Rather, my work becomes more an abstraction of my experiences; much of it is arrived at through memory, automatism and the subconscious. If there is a subject, it’s about making a mark and seeing where it takes me. I have always been intrigued with the materials of printmaking—copper, limestone, mordant and ink. A vague idea, chance, and the extraordinary potential of these elements are compelling considerations. I hope my prints convey a sense of integrity, passion and surprise.