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Working with tooled leather and printmaking, Edmond artist Jim Weaver creates intricately detailed depictions of the natural environment and Western iconography. His experience as a research hydrologist inspires his artwork, integrating nature-based themes and compositions that reference the ground below our feet. Weaver holds a Bachelor of Science in Forest Engineering from the State University of New York and a Master of Science and PhD in Water Resources Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin.

At the heart of Weaver’s practice is tooled leather—a fine craft traditionally used in the making of Western gear, such as saddles and belts. By using this medium, Weaver anchors his work in the heritage of the West while expanding his storytelling to include themes of contemporary society. Weaver extends his tooled leather practice further by experimenting with relief printing, incorporating his finely detailed leatherwork into a new form of artistic expression. What began as a Boy Scout activity with his son grew into a serious artistic pursuit. Weaver shares, “We decided to take free classes at the Tandy Leather shop where we learned the basics. As time went on, I expanded from the traditional Western themed leathercraft into a bigger variety of subjects, which led me to the idea of inking up and printing the leather pieces I was creating.” This innovative approach blends the tactile nature of leather with the precision of printmaking, resulting in artwork that feels both rooted in tradition and forward-thinking.

Featured in this exhibition are his works from the series The Great Cattle Trail, which commemorates the trail drive era of the 1870s. These works depict the cattle drives that spanned from Texas through what was once known as Indian Territory—now Oklahoma—into Kansas. The works use his signature style to illustrate the more than 25,000 men who drove cattle and the 10 million heads of cattle that were moved during this time over a three month period. Weaver’s works are inspired by the stories of the men found in numerous books published about this incredible feat.

Through his unique process, Weaver’s works have been the subject of numerous publications. He has also led and participated in artist residencies at multiple national parks including Joshua Tree National Park and the Petrified Forest National Park. He has received grants from the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition, and his work has been featured in solo and juried exhibitions at galleries across the Midwest region.

Through his respect for tradition and his innovative spirit, Weaver offers in his artwork a thoughtful reflection on America’s landscapes, values, and enduring relationship with the land.

About the Oklahoma State Capitol Galleries

The Oklahoma Arts Council supports the work of professional Oklahoma artists by showcasing their work in three galleries in the Oklahoma State Capitol. Exhibitions exemplify the outstanding and diverse artistic talent of the people of Oklahoma while enriching lives and promoting public interest and understanding of the arts. Exhibitions in the North, East and Governor’s galleries rotate every 60 days and are viewed by thousands of people from around the world who work in and tour the historic building.

Portfolio Submission

Artists interested in having their artwork considered for exhibition in the Oklahoma State Capitol galleries may submit their portfolios using the link below. Submission of a portfolio does not guarantee an exhibition.

Submit your portfolio here.