James Jacko is of the Three Fires Conferacy from the Wilwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve, Manitoulin Island and is of Odawa / Pottawan First Nations.

James started painting in 1977, but has always been creative in different medium. He is a self-taught artist and he loved using the theme “creation”.

I was born and raised here in Manitoulin Island and my cultural background does influence me.  We have symbols, teachings, art and craftwork almost everywhere on my reserve.  Some of my family members practice our traditions. Our elders are big influence also. Living close to nature also has positive effect on me, and it gives me a real sense of peace and tranquility.  I’d also like to add that my father, mother and eldest sister had a big influence on what and how I create my art. My father made murals of powwows dancers on the walls of the house he built. He liked to draw a lot of west coast style designs, and he was really food at carving wood