Jim Howle is one of the most versatile clowns performing today. In addition to his performing skills, which are finely honed, he is also a famous artist and expert on clown make up. While attending the Ringling School of Art, he learned of the creation of the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Clown College. He applied, was accepted, and was graduated from the original class in 1968. He then toured with the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey for seven years as a tramp clown, working with some of the great circus clowns ever. He was selected as the Big Show's official artist and after leaving the show in 1974 became an instructor at Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Clown College. In 1993 he was inducted into the Clown Hall of Fame. You can find some of Jim’s paintings in the Portrait Gallery of the Smithsonian Institute and the Leningrad Gallery.