James Becker

James M. Becker is an artist, educator, military veteran, and advocate for the therapeutic value of art, based in Grand Island, New York. Raised in Orchard Park, New York, Becker developed an early interest in art, encouraged by his middle-school art teacher, Miss Nowack [1]. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the State University of New York at Fredonia in 1991 and a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University at Albany in 1994. He subsequently taught art at several educational institutions throughout Western New York [2].

Working in drawing and other two-dimensional media, Becker demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of anatomy, composition, and the expressive possibilities of light and shadow. His charcoal and chalk drawing Giving (ca. 1996) exemplifies his meticulous approach to figurative realism, presenting an intimate and psychologically complex scene through carefully rendered figures, dramatic tonal contrasts, and architectural details. The work suggests an interest in human vulnerability, interpersonal relationships, and emotional expression. His artistic practice also encompasses subjects informed by his military experiences, as demonstrated by works such as Intraflection, which was recognized at the 2017 National Veterans Creative Arts Festival. [5]

Alongside his artistic career, Becker served in the United States Army and Army Reserve from 1992 to 2017, retiring with the rank of colonel [3]. His military career included service in Iraq with the 402nd Civil Affairs Battalion between 2002 and 2007, during which he held command responsibilities. He also served as deputy commander of the 354th Civil Affairs Brigade. His military decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal [3]. Becker also served in Kuwait [1].

Becker began his professional counseling career in 1996 as an addictions counselor at Horizon Village, a residential treatment facility in Sanborn, New York [2]. He subsequently became a readjustment counselor at the Buffalo Vet Center, assisting veterans as they navigated the psychological and social challenges of returning to civilian life. His work with veterans was recognized by the New York State Senate in 2018 [3].

Together with artist and arts advocate Jackie Albarella, Becker co-founded the Artists/Veterans Art Collaborative, an initiative providing veterans with opportunities to develop artistic skills and explore personal experiences through creative expression.

Becker's artwork has received recognition through the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival. In 2017, his work Intraflection was selected as a winning entry in the Military Combat Experience category [5]. That October, Becker participated in the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival held at the University at Buffalo Center for the Arts, where his work was exhibited alongside that of other veteran artists from across the country. [1, 6] In November 2018, New York State Senator Chris Jacobs recognized Becker as a Veteran of the Month, acknowledging his military career and continued service to the veteran community. [3]

 
Notes

[1] Mike Randall, "Festival Celebrates the Creativity of Veterans," WKBW-TV, October 2017. https://www.wkbw.com/news/the-now/festival-celebrates-the-creativity-of-veterans

[2] Headway of Western New York, WNY in Support of Veterans Symposium, June 22, 2016. Biographical profile of James Becker. https://www.headwayofwny.org/get-support/resources/veterans-guide/

[3] New York State Senate, "Senator Chris Jacobs Veteran of the Month Program Honorees," November 2018, entry for James Becker. https://www.nysenate.gov/newsroom/articles/2017/chris-jacobs/senator-chris-jacobs-veteran-month-program-honorees

[4] Scott Sackett and Paul Lamont, "Art Classes Helping Veterans Readjust to Civilian Life," WBFO / Buffalo Toronto Public Media, January 12, 2018. https://www.btpm.org/arts-culture/2018-01-12/art-classes-helping-veterans-readjust-to-civilian-life

[5] Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, "National Veterans Creative Arts Festival Artists Embark to Buffalo," October 16, 2017. https://buffalonavalpark.org/national-veterans-creative-arts-festival-artists-embark-buffalo/

[6] U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, "Veterans Showcase Talents at National Creative Arts Festival in Buffalo, N.Y.," October 20, 2017. https://news.va.gov/press-room/veterans-showcase-talents-at-national-creative-arts-festival-in-buffalo-n-y-exhibit-stage-show-open-to-public-and-media/