Meet James Baldwin | Aviation Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with James Baldwin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi James, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I have always loved drawing. One of my first memories is sitting with reams of paper on the lounge floor and drawing for hours on end. At school I was bright, but I never felt academic. The only subject I truly loved was art, so I eventually went to art school and got a good degree in Fine Art. But I became disillusioned as I felt there was an inauthentic approach to creativity. I was told what to think and how to paint. Traditional styles and techniques were discouraged and so, for me, drawing, my first love, took a backseat. It took a few years for me to realise that I should do what I love – and it was worth rekindling my passion. As a side hustle, I was drawing motorbikes for Yamaha and Suzuki racing teams. Then a work colleague saw these and asked me if I could draw a Spitfire and word-of-mouth recommendation led to another…and then another…until my aviation art career ‘took off’.
I started to realise I could make a living from drawing airplanes so I took the plunge, left my middle management job, and became a full-time artist. And why wouldn’t you? My only regret is that I didn’t do it earlier.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

As already touched on, the main subject of my work is aviation – and it’s a pretty niche genre. When it comes to drawing, my level of technique and skill is world leading. I am not saying it’s perfect. In fact, if I ever think that a piece cannot be improved, it is time to retire. There is always something to learn. My work speaks for itself. That’s why I have a world-wide client base. I am super proud that I have managed to craft an international business from my passion – and I’m excited about every new opportunity. I love that excitement – the what’s next anticipation. It certainly hasn’t been easy, but I plugged away with constant online marketing. Hard work has led to amazing commissions including work for private clients, industry and the military.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The atmosphere at any Browns game is just outstanding – they always have you biting your fingernails. The Chowder House in Akron is fantastic. Don’t miss out on their linguine with scallops.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Straight up I have to mention interior designer Emmy Jeffries of Damewood Designs. We recently worked together on an amazing project for a client in Columbus. This was to create a major artwork for his apartment. Emmy’s approach to interior design is unique and refreshing. She listens to her clients and crafts a space that is personal to them. We worked so well together because we immediately understood where the other was coming from, which made the process flow so easily. Emmy is talented and shows real sensitivity to the needs of her clients. She has great things ahead for her.

Website: https://www.jamesbaldwinaviationart.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesbaldwinaviationart/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-baldwin-aviation-art-9342192a/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jbaldwinaviationart