photography, painting, sculpture, and poetry ​ Jim was born in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, in 1934 and raised in the serene and reflective tradition of the Quakers, an upbringing that instilled in him a deep sense of peace and introspection. After receiving his Bachelor of Arts in English, he volunteered with the American Friends Service Committee in European work camps.   Furthering his education, he attended the Rhode Island School of Design, where he graduated with a degree in architecture in 1960. This foundation in design and creativity set the stage for a lifetime of artistic exploration.   He shared his life with the talented artist and illustrator Freddy Spillman (who passed in 2023), with whom he created a life rich in creativity and love. Their partnership was a beautiful fusion of artistic endeavors, travel, and gardening pursuits.   In 1959, they migrated to the lush landscapes of Oregon, where he embarked on a diverse career as an architect, graphic designer, landscape designer, and site planner. Jim worked for Clackamas County, developing designs for Clackamas Town Center, Downtown Oregon City, and The End of the Oregon Trail Cultural Heritage Park. Additionally, he designed residences, urban row houses, and townhouses for various architectural firms. His interest lay in a holistic-experiential design approach, unearthing unique communal aspirations and creating communities conducive to physical, mental, and spiritual growth. He was ahead of the curve in designing smaller homes at a time when people desired large ones.   They developed deep bonds with other creative families as they raised their children, first in Portland and then on their picturesque farm in Mulino, Oregon. They nurtured three children and a menagerie of animals, crafting a unique home that is a testament to their combined vision and creativity. The farm was not just a residence but a living, breathing part of their lives.   In the 1990s, he decided to retire early to help care for his son Toby (who passed in 2024) after he suffered an aneurysm. This period of caregiving opened a new chapter in his life, allowing him to delve deeply into his passions for photography, haiku, poetry, and abstract painting.   For many years, Freddy and he divided their time between the tranquil beauty of Mulino, Oregon, and the vibrant culture of Todos Santos, Mexico. In Todos Santos, they designed another home and studio, further expanding their creative horizons. For example, he used old car hoods with many layers of paint to grind back compositions, exhibiting and selling these works in Todos Santos.   In March 2024, he celebrated his 90th birthday, a milestone marked by a lifetime of artistic achievement and personal fulfillment. Along with their three children, he has six inspiring grandchildren and their partners, all of whom reflect creativity and self-actualization. He resides on the historic farm in Mulino, Oregon, where he remains an active and passionate artist. Surrounded by the memories of a life well-lived and the natural beauty of his beloved farm, his creativity continues to flourish. ​ bio by Saya Moriyasu, artist and long-time family friend