Raphael James

My traditional name is Que Bee Man Tseh, which means Bear Sharpening Claw. I am Kachina and Parrot Clan from the Tewa Village. My portrayal of art is what I’ve grownup with and the experiences I’ve had along with their correlations. I draw, paint and airbrush. I create murals, banners and carvings. I’ve been an artist for over 40 years.

I come from a long list of artists, both on my Dine’ (paternal) side and my Hopi-Tewa (maternal) side. My Family is made up of bead weavers, silversmiths, jewelry makers, Kachina Doll carvers, painters, potters and weavers. This art was always a constant flow around me to absorb and observe.

I graduated high school and went to Collins College for Visual Communications and received my associate in arts degree in Graphic Design.

As an artist, my statement is “Imaginations into Creations”.

This has been my motto since I created my art page “Jamez Customz”. As time went on, my murals were looking very promising. The motivation behind my art comes from within. I have observed and learned and now I am passing on. Whether the four colors of the season to the circle of life, we areal one. From the warm hues of red, orange and yellow to the cooler hues of blue, green and purple. I compare these to my daily feelings and my outlook on life. Good or bad, positive or negative. We live in a Yin and Yang world, with a message of letting the voiceless know, WE HEAR YOU! Our positive energy is resilient, strong, prideful and unified.

Facebook: Jamez Customz

Instagram: RaffaJmz@raffajmz