James was born in 1952 in Dublin. His paintings are easily recognised by the rich and vibrant colour that he uses in a loose impasto fashion. Applied with a brush, his work reflects the mood, colour and light that inspire him to paint a wide range of subjects such as boats, harbours, farm animals and still life.

He has exhibited in many major galleries in Ireland and overseas. His work hangs in private collections in the USA, Ireland and mainland Europe. He is one of the best known Irish oil painters.