J.P. Edwards, 2010 Michigan Duck Stamp Winner
 
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Though a newcomer to the wildlife art industry, J.P. Edwards has been exposed to wildlife for as long as he can remember. J.P. recalls lying on the living room floor watching Marty Stouffer’s Wild America and sketching his favorite animals. It was then that his parents recognized his gift as an artist. Growing up in Smithfield, North Carolina, J.P. was fascinated with the natural world around him, spending hours in the woods climbing trees, exploring rivers and observing the animals he encountered. J.P.’s favorite pastime was going fishing and hunting with his father. These experiences taught him to respect the outdoors and cherish the earth’s natural landscapes.

While furthering his education at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina, J.P. was exposed to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Its streams, mountains and wildlife greatly contributed to making college life a memorable experience. At Appalachian, J.P. studied graphic design, a discipline that has brought balance, form and attention to detail to his paintings. J.P. also took studio classes including illustration and photography that would help lay a solid foundation for his work in wildlife art.

J.P.’s professional artistic career began when he ventured to New York City after graduating from Appalachian. Living in the Big Apple, J.P. worked as a graphic designer/illustrator learning to handle tight deadlines and long hours. Amid the hustle and bustle of city life, he spent much of his free time in Central Park to satisfy his longing for wide-open spaces. Through its welcome expanses of trees and grass, as well as the zoo and the American Museum of Natural History, the park served as his sanctuary for nature. Restless for new experiences, J.P. later moved to Austin, Texas. Life in the Lone Star state gave him the opportunity to explore a vast variety of unfamiliar landscapes and wildlife.

But as the old saying goes, "there’s no place like home". J.P. eventually returned to North Carolina and currently lives in Raleigh with his wife Mary, who is his most avid fan. Whether going on trips or exploring local parks, he is always thinking of a concept for a blank canvas that needs some paint. J.P. believes his talent and passion for art will help him make a difference in this world. So far to his credit as a wildlife artist, J.P. has won the Nevada and Michigan Duck Stamp Competitions along with being names Idaho's Ducks Unlimited Sponsor Print of the Year. You can see J.P. most current artwork on his website at www.jpedwardsart.com

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