About Jim

 

Jim Lee is a figurative sculptor with a lifelong passion for the human face and form. A proud artist-in-residence at General Gomez Arts in Auburn, CA, Jim teaches intimate sculpture workshops focused on anatomy, gesture, and expression using water-based clay.

 

His love of sculpting began with a science project in a Catholic school—“The Evolution of Man”—that didn’t go over so well. Years later, while working as a financial consultant, Jim found himself carving faces into wood as a hobby… and eventually into his own fingers. That led him back to drawing—until one day at the Laguna Art Festival, he witnessed a sculptor fixing a flawed cheek on a clay mask with ease. The spark reignited.

 

Jim went home, bought 50 pounds of clay, and dove in headfirst. After months of cracked busts and trial-and-error, he met ceramist Larry Ortiz and began his journey into the art and science of sculpture.

 

Jim’s sculptural education includes mentorship under Philippe Faraut, studies with Andrew Cawrse (Anatomy Tools, Las Vegas), and countless hours using the Anatomy for Sculptors resources and Complete Anatomy apps. His teaching approach is grounded in classical technique with modern clarity, and he’s known for making complex anatomy approachable and exciting.

 

At JCLee Studios, Jim teaches students from beginners to experienced artists in small, focused workshops. His instruction includes deep dives into bone structure, facial features, muscle systems, skin texture, and expressive pose—without the pressure of using a live model for early learners.

 

Jim and his wife, Karen, split their time between Meadow Vista and San Clemente, CA. He is a proud father of four and grandfather of nine—and loves nothing more than helping others discover the joy of sculpting the human form.