His works have been described as tense, mythological compositions executed in jewel-like colours that evoke Roualt, Beckman and certain Melbourne romantic painters. (Art Beat by Anna Johnson, Sydney Morning Herald).

Artist, teacher and co-author of visual arts text, 'A.R.T: art, research, theory', Craig Malyon, is enthusiastic about Stephen's work. "There is something in his painting technique, a lustre that draws you inside the canvas. It's in the glaze and the light, you are not stopped at the surface."

Stephen's first solo exhibition was in 1995 at Crawford Gallery, East Sydney, where he went on to have several successful solo exhibitions.

Since this time, Stephen James has exhibited regularly in Sydney and Canberra and has had several successful solo exhibitions including having his work selected for the highly regarded "Salon des Refusees" at the H.R. Ervin Gallery and "The Alice Prize" for contemporary Australian art.

He was named a finalist in the Inaugural Canberra Art Prize and in November 2005, Stephen was named a finalist in the prestigious Cromwells Art Prize. Steve's work, Inland Sea, is one of only 30 works selected and his work will be part of the Touring Exhibition to be exhibited throughout 2006. The tour travels throughout Australia and then moves to London, Paris and the USA where the works will be promoted to international art communities.

After living and working in Sydney for many years, Stephen lived for 4 years in Canberra, Australia's national capital, before returning to the Hunter Valley to take up residence in one of the area's most historic buildings, The Branxton Inn.

Now known as The Branxton Inn Arthouse, he has set up a new studio overlooking the picturesque vistas that inspire his work. Art classes and workshops for all ages are run regularly. Viewings, tuition and commissions are arranged by appointment. He continues to exhibit in Sydney at Harris Courtin Gallery and The Hughenden and in Canberra at Chapman Gallery.

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