Baker Artist Portfolios

James L. Gossard is a Maryland-based writer, director, and producer working across film, stage, and literary forms. His work often explores memory, place, identity, and the tension between interior lives and public histories.

In 2024, Gossard published "Archipelago: Selected Works," a collection of short stories, poetry, stage plays, and a screenplay. In 2025, Gossard presented free readings and discussion from "Archipelago" in an effort to bring free literary events into the community. He subsequently launched "Archipelago Journal," a free Substack publication featuring his original fiction, poetry, stage work, and reflection: https://substack.com/@jamesgossard

His feature documentary "Divine Instinct," which premiered in Washington DC in 2023, has since screened internationally, earning multiple awards and nominations. In 2026, the film was shortlisted as a Nominee for Best Film Essay at the Darkland Film Awards in Munich, Germany, recognizing its hybrid approach at the intersection of documentary and essay cinema. "Divine Instinct" is currently available for streaming through ResearchTV.

Earlier in his career, Gossard worked as a freelance journalist in Montana, writing for wildlife and regional publications. His screenplays have received national recognition, including Top-Ten placement from StoryPros and honors from DC Spotlight on Screenwriters. His stage play "September Moon" received a Maryland State Arts Council Individual Artist Award, as did his poetry.

He studied creative writing at the University of Montana and earned an M.A. in Writing from Johns Hopkins University. He has taught screenwriting at Howard Community College and has served as a panelist and reviewer for regional arts organizations and writing conferences.

Gossard is currently developing two new novels and a stage play. He lives in Ellicott City, Maryland, with his spouse, Ann.