Spring
Bowheads
Whales migrate through the arctic corridor down the coast feeding. The Iñupiat people depend on the whale for their survival. It’s with great respect and reverence that they harvest the whales; a single whale feeds the entire village.
Bowhead whales are thought to be the oldest living mammals on earth, living 200 to 300 years.
2026 Artist
of the Year
James 'Boaty' Messer
Born in the territory of Alaska in 1952 and raised in Fairbanks, James has spent a lifetime dedicated to the craft of creation. With a lifelong goal of working with his hands, James finds his greatest joy in the continuous process of sculpting, blending Alaska culture with his art to keep local history alive.
Presented by the Greater Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce
Medium &
Material
James’ work is a fusion of structural engineering and fine art. Each sculpture begins with a hand-built armature, meticulously constructed to ensure lasting durability and lifelike gesture.
The Armature
- Foam Board
- Rebar
- Foil
- Mechanics Towel
- Elmer’s Glue
- Masking Tape
- Copper Wire
- Steel Mesh
The Finish
For detail work, James primarily utilizes fine Italian clay. The finishing process involves professional gesso primers and a complex layering of acrylic and lacquer paints to achieve the depth and texture seen in the final gallery pieces.
Other Disciplines
- Wood Carving
- Antler Carving
- Soapstone
- Epoxy Clay
The Artist
Born in the territory of Alaska in 1952 and raised in Fairbanks, James has spent a lifetime working with his hands. What began as sketching at age eight quickly evolved into soapstone carving, sparking a lifelong pursuit of creation and learning.
For James, art is a way to keep local history alive. His passion lies in blending the rich culture of Alaska with his sculptures—sharing the spirit of the North with his community and the world beyond.
Acquire
For pricing and availability of current work, please reach out directly.
alaskacapturedmoments@gmail.com
Serving the Fairbanks community.
Outside the Interior? Packaging, insurance, and shipping are the responsibility of the collector.