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Arts & Entertainment

Former Town Resident Finishes Run at Stratford Library

Local Artist James Jansson displayed his Pen and Ink Sketches at the Library; attended Lordship School and Stratford High School.

James Jansson is a local artist and former Stratford resident whose original framed pen-and-ink prints just completed a month-long run in February on display in the Stratford Library.

Born in Bridgeport, Mr. Jansson attended Lordship School, Johnson Junior High and graduated from Stratford High School. He now lives in Shelton.

Since the age of 3 years old, Mr. Jansson has expressed himself through art. He was first inspired by Jon Nagy of the 1950’s TV shows How to Draw. Later, James studied art with Thomas Gargiulo, Sally Fox and Judy Neilson.

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Since the late 1960s, James has focused his sketches on Stratford landmarks. Many of the landmarks he sketches still exist, but he also recreates his works from old photographs. The Phelps Mansion was one of his first drawings. Each drawing takes approximately a week, requiring 20 to 30 hours of drawing time.

James' illustrations have been seen in various newspapers and magazines in Connecticut and Maine. His work was features as the cover of Jim Baumer’s book, “Moxietown” - an author from Maine.

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Jansson's display was a part of a year-round free art display at the Stratford Library. The goal is twofold: to showcase artists' works, while presenting various mediums for public appreciation.

This was the first display of James' sketches in the Stratford library. 

Although the display ended Monday, framed prints are available for $20. Each print comes with a brief description of the landmark. James A. Jansson may be contacted at Wine Art, 60 Great Oak Road, Shelton at (203) 929-4374.

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