A woodturner since 1994, Jim produces turned works of art that include spindle turning, open and closed vessels.  He uses both domestic woods from North America and exotic woods from around the world.  His turnings frequently involve the use of inlays with rare woods and turquoise.  His work has been displayed at various exhibitions, art galleries, and are sold wildly through art shows.  He is represented in Taos, as well as Oklahoma.  Jim's exhibitions include Philbrook Museum of Art, Alexander Hogue Gallery, and South Texas Institute for the Arts.  Photos of Jim's work have appeared in Wood Magazine, the world's leading woodworking journal.  Jim is an active member of the American Association of Woodturners and is the past president of the Northeastern Oklahoma Woodturners Association.

Dr. Vander Lind retired from The University of Tulsa on June 1, 2005, following 37 years of employment.  He served as Dean of students for 27 years and Dean of University and Community Service for 10 years.  He is now engaged in woodturning on a fulltime basis.