Profile: James Jean

Residing in LA, Taiwan-born creative James Jean is recognised for his illustration and fine art. The award-winning creator began his career as a cover artist for DC Comics and now focuses on painting. Combining traditional and modern culture in his work, James' pieces are a blend of styles and genres.

What creative skill led you on the path to becoming an artist?

From the earliest time I can remember, I was always drawing. I was fascinated with images and because I couldn't take photos I started drawing. Growing up, I started getting into comic books. I didn’t know anything about the art world but comics really showed me a vision, a world where my drawings could exist. When I started going to art school in New York, I discovered painting and this entire new world of fine art. Once I graduated, I wanted to become an artist but I managed to turn full circle and started making cover art for comic books. 10 years later, I started making my personal work which is where I am now.

What do you think it is about your personality that has allowed you to form a career out of your passion?

I've got a constant need to work, an obsession with working, with getting my ideas and imagination out there. I love contending with the unknown, delving into that and problem solving my way out of it. I never know exactly what it is I’m doing but once I start drawing I love seeing how new things flourish.

Looking to the future, what do you want to learn to help your success grow?

The future is a mystery but I'm always thinking about it. The basis of everything that I do is drawing and from here I've started working with stained glass and metal plate etchings. I'm just going to let the drawing take me on an adventure and hope the future will be interesting.