James Veenstra is a Michigan native, currently living on a small ranch in Northern Michigan, just northwest of Manton. Veenstra has also lived in the Rocky Mountains and Sheridan, Wyoming. Consequently, his art glass work reflects the inherent beauty of God’s unspoiled creation in both western and mid-western settings
Veenstra created his artwork simultaneously while also working in the environmental field for over 35 years. He obtained his Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Sciences, and his Master of Science degree in Resource Planning/Hydrology, and has contributed to the delineation and/or clean up of hundreds of contaminated sites. His focus is now on creation of unique art pieces. He has always been an avid horseman, outdoors enthusiast and sportsman, involved in hunting, fishing, outdoor photography, and wilderness backpacking, canoeing, kayaking and skiing adventures. His prolonged duration in Wyoming infected his attitude and philosophy with what is desirably Western. It is this unique blend of art, science, and the vast experience of the natural world which forms his particular style of art.
Veenstra is an active member in a number of resource conservation and wildlife groups including the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Pheasants Forever, Trout Unlimited, Ducks Unlimited, and the American Paint Horse Association. Veenstra manages the family “ranch” for wildlife habitat and is currently participating in the National Wildlife Partners Program, and the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program.
