Local wildlife artist's work going into Oval Office

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – A Switzerland County artist developed a technique in the 1980’s that has taken him to places he never imagined. 

Jim Day makes ‘re-creation art’ where he sculpts life-like eagles without using anything from the real bird. 

It’s a lengthy process where he constructs the body and then paints and airbrushes nearly 2,000 feathers to recreate a real eagle. 

The 68-year-old is believed to be the only person in the United States that makes a living through this artistry.

He was named “Best in World Re-Creation Artist” in 1995 and also received the runner-up award in 2001.

His work is displayed in museums, nature centers, company lobbies and private collections around the world. 

The East Enterprise resident even spent a month in China in the 2000's to construct an exhibit.

Several years ago, Day partnered with Todd Lowe of Wildlife Interiors which is an art broker that specializes in wildlife art. 

That partnership has now taken Day’s artwork to one of the most prestigious buildings in the world.

“The White House called and said they want one of my eagle’s and would like it no later than Thursday of last week,” Jim recalled. 

Jim didn’t have a new eagle readily available so Todd Lowe decided to use one from his personal collection.

Day and Todd traveled to Washington and went through rigorous background checks and security protocols which included X-rays, bomb-sniffing dogs and other measures. 

After entering the White House, they went into the West Wing where they met White House Deputy Chief of Staff James Blair. 

Jim recalled Blair saying, “This eagle is spectacular and President Trump is going to love this!’ 

Day was also told that his eagle will be placed in the Oval Office for the foreseeable future.

President Trump was not available the day but Jim describes it as an incredible experience and an honor. 

“I'm 68-years-old and getting ready to slow down, but this is absolutely the pinnacle of my career,” Jim said. 

Day hopes to get the opportunity to personally thank the president in the future.

During last week's visit to the White House, Day had an opportunity to meet United States Senators Lindsay Graham, Katie Britt, Tim Scott, Bernie Moreno and others.

The 812 will provide an update to this story once the eagle is placed in the Oval Office.

You can follow Jim's work by clicking here.