Inspired by the natural world, “Spring Awakening” showcases Cusmano’s vibrant silk paintings alongside his two- and three-dimensional ceramic works. There will be an Opening Reception on Friday, March 6 from 5:00-6:30pm with the artist in attendance. The public is also invited to an Artist Talk and Demonstration on Wednesday, March 11, from 5:00–6:00pm. During this special program, Cusmano will discuss his creative process, offer a hands-on demonstration, and take questions from attendees.
Cusmano’s silk paintings are created using transparent French dyes applied by hand to white China silk. “Each composition is entirely unique,” says Cusmano. The silk is stretched on a rigid frame, and a variety of resist and control techniques are used to guide the flow of dye across the organic fabric. Once complete, the paintings are steamed to permanently set the colors, then re-stretched and framed for presentation.
For his two-dimensional tile panels, slabs are rolled from block clay, retaining their natural edges. Full-size master patterns are drawn and transferred onto leather-hard clay, then incised and cut before drying. Once fully dried—known as “greenware”—the tiles are kiln-fired to the bisque stage, glazed, and fired again. The finished tiles are mounted on wood panels and grouted for display.
Cusmano’s three-dimensional vessels—including vases, bowls, and boxes—are hand-built using rolled clay slabs. Master patterns are transferred to the clay, cut, partially dried, assembled, and refined before final drying. The pieces are then bisque-fired, glazed, and refired to achieve their finished form.
About the Artist:
James Cusmano is a Monadnock Region Artist working in Pastels, Oils, Watercolor, Printmaking, Textiles, Pottery and Ceramic Tile. His current focus is on vibrant nature themed paintings using transparent liquid French Dyes on white China Silk. He has a degree in Fine Art and Design from Pratt Institute, NY with specialty studies at School of Visual Arts, Manhattan and The Visual Arts Center of NJ, Summit, NJ. He has taught silk painting at Visual Arts Center of NJ, and at the Center for Contemporary Art, Bedminster, NJ. Exhibitions include the Morris County Arts Workshop-Solo, Bernardsville Public Library-Solo, Wilton, CT Library, Washington Square Outdoor, Gracie Mansion Outdoor, Jaffery Civic Center Gala and Spring Shows, Monadnock Art Spring Show, Pastel Society of NH.
Jim opened his studio for the 2025 Monadnock Art Studios Tour October 2025. Jim and his wife owned and operated a successful art and framing gallery for over 10 years. His work is included in numerous corporate and private collections ranging from 6” x 6” to 96” x 192”. He currently lives in Peterborough with his wife Christine.
