For wildlife artist James “Jay” Perkins of Monticello, the attention is in the detail.

Perkins, a self-taught artist, typically spends up to four months on a single oil painting perfecting every detail, down to the last leaf or grain of sand, and making sure the wildlife captured in his work is portrayed in its natural habitat.

“The number one thing that drives me is accuracy and detail,” Perkins, who has been painting since the age of 10, said. “I can’t stop painting details.”

A collection of Perkins’ artwork spanning his 20-plus year career is currently on display at The Center for Rural Development.

“We are excited to have Jay as our featured artist in our visual arts exhibit at The Center,” said Dianna Winstead, associate director of arts, culture, and events at The Center. “He paints with passion and creativity and a deep love for nature and wildlife.”

The exhibit, which is on display through July 19, is free and open to the general public. Exhibit hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday and during extended evening and weekend hours when The Center is open to the public.

The visual arts exhibit is presented by Lake Cumberland Performing Arts in partnership with The Center.