We recently connected with Leejames Designs and have shared our conversation below.
Leejames, appreciate you joining us today. Looking back on your career, have you ever worked with a great leader or boss? We’d love to hear about the experience and what you think made them such a great leader.
What a interesting question. I would have to say my Dad played a significant role in shaping not only my artistic abilities but also my approach to life. A mentor, especially one with artistic prowess, can impart invaluable lessons that extend far beyond technical skills. Here are a few ways my dad may have contributed to my development as an artist and individual:
As an artist, my dad has provided me with practical, hands-on guidance on techniques, tools, and mediums. From brush strokes to color theory, these fundamentals lay the foundation for artistic expression.
Beyond technical skills, my dad shared his creative process and sources of inspiration. Learning to find inspiration in everyday life, nature, or emotions is a crucial aspect of becoming a well-rounded artist.
Art is a form of personal expression. My dad always encouraged me to find your unique voice and style rather than simply imitating others. This guidance fosters creativity and helps me develop a distinctive artistic identity.
The journey of an artist often involves challenges and setbacks. My dad taught me the importance of persistence, resilience, and patience in the face of artistic struggles.
Constructive criticism is a vital aspect of artistic growth. A good mentor knows how to provide feedback that encourages improvement without stifling creativity. Learning to receive and give constructive critique is a valuable skill.
Passion is contagious. My dad approached art with love and enthusiasm, and that inspired the same passion in me. This love for the craft is what keeps artists motivated and dedicated.
My dad was such a accomplished artist, he instilled in me a sense of responsibility to use my artistic abilities for positive impact. Whether through social commentary, storytelling, or other means, art can be a powerful tool for communication.
Remembering and appreciating the lessons my dad imparted can be a beautiful way to honor his legacy.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Certainly! I go by the name LEEJAMES i was born in the United Kingdom and was raised in Los Angeles in the early 80’s My journey began in school where i was introduced to graffiti where i fell in love with typography which led me to figure out how to make custom fonts from the paper to the walls witch lead. to a passion for design and a deep fascination with the world of art and creativity. At a young age, I was always drawn to visual art with vibrant colors and patterns. The world of art followed me through school till i graduated and started working for my dad at a sign shop where the game changed as i got to learn all facets of design, where I honed my skills and developed me into a true well rounded artist.
As I delved into the world of design, I started my career as a freelance graphic designer, working with clients across various industries. This early experience allowed me to not only refine my craft but also understand the diverse needs and preferences of different clients.
One of the pivotal moments in my career came when I had the opportunity to work on a project for a major movie studio. This project opened more doors to the motion picture industry, and I soon found myself collaborating on film , tv , music videos etc. The beauty of working on these project was the reward of seeing your work on screen and saying to yourself (I DID THAT)nothing like that feeling so exhilarating.
Over time, my portfolio grew to encompass a wide range of projects, from iconic films, music ,tv . Each project presented its own set of creative challenges, and I embraced them as opportunities for growth and innovation. And now i have over 30 years of experience in the industry,
Today, I find myself working for a amazing company called ONAIR DESIGNS plus running my LEEJAMES DESIGNS Where I’m currently delving into the world fine art creating custom college pieces and physical gallery pieces which brings tons of passion and dedication to my work. I immerse myself in every project, treating it as a unique opportunity to create something remarkable. My ability to infuse my personal love for art and music into my designs adds an authentic and distinctive touch that resonates with my fans.
Ultimately, I believe that my commitment to pushing creative boundaries, my ability to evoke emotions through visual design, and my profound appreciation for the art form set me apart and contribute to my continued success in the world of graphic design and fine art.
Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?
To me, NFTs are an asset that has been popularized and hyped through social media. Because of crypto, people have a fear of missing out and are simply buying NFTs to own them. We invest in assets with the expectation that those assets will in value over time. That being said, another crucial aspect of investing is finding assets that offer utility and real world application. Crypto is one such asset type, having material long-term implications on our financial system. NFTs, in my opinion, are enticing yet trendy assets that won’t sustain the same success crypto has seen over the last couple of years. might seem bizarre to buy the “authentic” version of something you can easily screengrab off your desktop, but it’s easy to overlook the emotional value of collecting, especially when it comes to original art. Some of the appeal is owning an authentic item created by an artist you like, and the bragging rights that come with it. Essentially, this isn’t very different than owning an original Andy Warhol painting that can be displayed, sold, or shared—it just happens to be digital. Plus, crypto art finally unlocks the problem of artists getting paid, as the creators can program these assets to pay them royalties each time the collectible is sold.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
For me and many other artists, the act of creating is a form of self-expression. It provides a means to communicate thoughts, emotions, and ideas in a unique and personal way.Creating art often involves a desire to connect with and impact others. Whether through evoking emotions, sparking thoughts, or inspiring action, i often find reward in knowing that my work resonates with an audience.The creative process is a journey of continuous learning and exploration. And i’m constantly refining my skills, trying new techniques, and pushing the boundaries of their abilities.Being an artist often allows for a degree of freedom and autonomy. As a artist i can choose their subjects, mediums, and styles, allowing me to pursue my vision without rigid constraints.Completing a piece of art, whether it’s a painting, sculpture, or any other form, can bring a profound sense of accomplishment. This feeling is especially rewarding when the artist reflects on the evolution of their skills and the growth represented in my work.Many of us find a sense of belonging within the creative community. Sharing ideas, collaborating with other artists, and participating in exhibitions or events contribute to a supportive and enriching environment. Myself and others often consider the potential for their work to endure beyond their lifetime. Creating something that leaves a lasting impact or becomes part of a cultural or artistic legacy can be deeply rewarding.The creative process can be therapeutic for many of us. It provides a means to process emotions, cope with challenges, and find a meditative or reflective space.
It’s important to note that the rewarding aspects of being an artist can vary widely from person to person. Each artist has their unique motivations and sources of fulfillment, making the creative journey a deeply personal and enriching experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: leejamesdesigns.com
- Instagram: leejames_designs
Image Credits
NQS Photography 35 MAAR