Mountville-based mixed-media artist James Hecker will display his works in an exhibit titled "A Decade Plus of Texture" at Mulberry Art Studios, 21 N. Mulberry St., Lancaster, in September. The exhibit will launch with an opening reception from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 6, and will remain at the studio until Monday, Sept. 30.

"A Decade Plus of Texture" will showcase a collection of abstract pieces Hecker has created over the last 10 years. Each piece incorporates a heavy emphasis on texture, which Hecker explores through his work using plaster, oil paint and acrylic paint. "It will probably look like 10 different artists have work in that space because I get bored," Hecker said. "I like to try different styles, and I'm always trying something new."

Hecker grew up in Mount Joy, and he discovered his passion for making art during a stay at Hershey Medical Center when he was 5 years old. Due to a rare heart condition, Hecker spent long periods of time at the hospital to prepare for surgery, and he often could not leave his bed. Hecker's mother brought art supplies to his room to help pass the time, and Hecker said he started drawing up a storm.

Hecker continued to make art as he grew older, teaching himself new techniques along the way. Eventually, Hecker pursued a career in commercial art and attended art school. Although he was unable to remain in art school, Hecker said he never stopped creating, even when he found himself working a job in the construction field. Hecker once again decided to seek a career that incorporated his love of art after a near-death experience that occurred on a construction site. "It woke me up," Hecker said. "I almost died doing something that is secondary to a passion of mine."

After leaving the construction world, Hecker started his own business to paint murals and faux finishes. While completing a job to paint the columns of a home to resemble marble, Hecker said he noticed another contractor who was applying texture to the walls. Hecker began exploring texture with his art, and he has continued to try new techniques and hone his methods of applying texture to his personal artwork as well as his business projects.

Since starting his business 20 years ago, Hecker has been hired for projects throughout Lancaster County to use his textural techniques on historic buildings after they have been restored and businesses that have undergone repairs. Many of the projects involved replacing a damaged part of the structure with something more modern and durable, which Hecker then transformed by hand-painting believable textures to resemble wood. Hecker continues to sell paintings in addition to offering faux finishing and decorative services through his business.

"My style is always changing, and I'm always learning," Hecker said. "I think the best approach is to be humble, because there's always something new to explore."

For more information, search "JamesHecker.com" on Facebook or visit Hecker's Instagram, @paintntexture.