Oberle portraits of American Indians both from the past to present contain a reverence of the spirit which extends from the beginning of people on this continent to the present day. His art shows just how they enrich our lives , through their Wisdom, Traditions and Achievements. Jim’s art expresses many of these by including nature and environmental values into many of his pieces. The faces displayed in Jims art captures the strength and enduring character of Native Peoples.
His art is housed in many fine galleries and private collections throughout the United States.
Jim is a native of Dayton, Ohio and a graduate of Stivers High School. He and his wife Gilda, who acts as his manager reside in Dayton. Together the have four children and five grandchildren.

Jim served as Art Director for
~Inter Tribal Arts Experience
1990—1993.
Served on Artist Selections Committee for
~Inter Tribal Arts Experience
1990-1995.

Jim created Logo designs for multiple organizations in the Miami Valley, including the Miami Valley Council for Native Americans.

Jim was commissioned to create original art for the cover of programs and brochures for First Frontier — Blue Jacket Outdoor Drama
1992, 1994 and 1995 seasons.

His artistic abilities have been recognized by national publications including , Native Peoples Magazine.

Wright Patterson Air Force Base has used his art for many base-wide events including the Annual celebrations of National Native American Heritage Month.

Original Art “Wolf Dreamer” is featured on the cover of, Animal Wise by author Ted Andrews. Released 1999. Dragonhawk Publishing.

Original Art “The Council” is featured on the cover of, Animal Speak Workbook by author Ted Andrews. Released 2001. Dragonhawk Publishing.

Ohio Humanities Council , 1998 –1999 Annual Report to the People of Ohio featured original art, “Spirit of the Panther.”

First place award John Deere Artist Competition. 2000

Recipient of the Dayton Culture Builds Community Award .
First place –Individual Artist 1998.

Cover design and illustrations for Lessons from Turtle Island a first ever native curriculum workbook for educators. Authors Guy Jones and Sally Moomaw. Released 2002. Redleaf Press

Jim has exhibited with nationally known Native artists including Johnny Tiger, Jim Yellowhawk and Rex Begay.

 

 

 

~ Inter Tribal Arts Experience
The first and only Juried/Fine Art event east of the Mississippi held in Dayton, Ohio 1990—1995.
Featuring Native American artists from across the country.