James McCain My education as a gardener began first-hand in childhood, having been born into a family of avid gardeners in the Upper Midwest. I studied architecture at the University of Illinois in Chicago and at the New York Institute of Technology in New York, with an emphasis on design and art history.

My diverse work experience includes computer-aided drafting at engineering and architectural firms in Illinois, managing an architecture & design book shop in New York, freelance gardening in Tennessee, trail-building in California's Redwood National Park, organic farming in Oregon, and network & database administration in Texas.

After moving to Portland Maine in 2000, I worked in the tree & shrub nursery for Skillin's Greenhouses and in the perennial greenhouses at Plainview Farm, while also taking botany and horticulture courses at SMCC. I then worked as a landscape gardener while beginning my own professional practice of designing & creating landscapes and gardens, full time since 2002.

Having lived, explored and gardened in every region of the country, I've grown to appreciate the unique character and beauty of the natural landscapes and vernacular architecture of each place. There is an incredible pool of creativity in the greater Portland area, and I am fortunate to be a part of it, doing much of my conceptual work in a studio within the heart of the Arts District.

Whether in my studio or a garden, at a stone yard or a nursery, I thoroughly enjoy this work and its interdisciplinary nature. Over the years this has resulted in many projects I am proud to have been a part of, and fostered many lasting relationships.