Michael James

Michael James—known to many as Mic—is a dynamic, ever-evolving artist whose work celebrates curiosity, connection, and creative play. Fueled by a lifelong passion for drawing, Mic’s artistic journey began as a kid watching his father sketch detailed land surveys—an experience that planted the seed for a career built on precision, storytelling, and expressive mark-making.

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Formally trained at Keene State College, Mic honed his craft through intensive study in figure drawing, painting, and sketching. Inspired by master painters like Richard Schmid and Robert Liberace, he blends classical techniques with modern energy, creating vibrant portraits, emotive figure studies, and character-driven work inspired by comics, travel, and daily life.

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But what truly sets Mic apart is his love of learning. He thrives on trying new materials, making unexpected marks, and translating emotion through every brushstroke—whether working in charcoal, watercolor, oils, or digital formats. For Mic, the process is just as thrilling as the final piece. His studio is a playground of experimentation, where new ideas, styles, and subjects constantly take shape.

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Mic shares that creative spark beyond the canvas, too—hosting live YouTube streams that invite viewers into his world of in-the-moment discovery. He also brings people together through figure drawing sessions, gallery shows, artist talks, and a thriving Patreon community, where fans can access exclusive works, behind-the-scenes content, and limited editions.

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Through it all, Mic’s art is about more than just visuals—it’s about growth, connection, and the joy of making something honest. His work invites viewers to engage not only with what they see, but with what they feel.