James P. Oakley, originally from northern New Jersey, has resided at the Jersey Shore since 1976. He was, at an early age, influenced by his father, James T. Oakley, also an artist. Jim won his first award in oil painting at age thirteen.

     Jim's art classes began at Newark Museum in Newark, New Jersey. Today he studies under the watchful eye of Tony Ventura, of Neptune, New Jersey. He has been a student of Mr. Ventura's for the past fifteen years.

     Jim has been in numerous art exhibitions and shows from Sandy Hook to Smithville, New Jersey. He has participated in many juried shows in both Monmouth and Ocean Counties, including the Monmouth County Arts Council 18th Annual Show in 1997.

     Most recently, Jim's work have been on display in the Gentle Winds Gallery in Smithville, New Jersey. At Present, Jim is an Exhibiting Member at The Guild of Creative Art in Shrewsbury, New Jersey and also continues his membership at the Ocean County Artist Guild in Island Heights, New Jersey. At present, Jim teaches privately out of his home in Waretown, New Jersey.