Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamie Wells.
Hi Jamie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I’m Jamie Wells – an artist who has been passionate about creating art for as long as I can remember. I first fell in love with art when I was just three years old and got my hands on some finger paints. From that moment on, I knew that creating beautiful, inspiring pieces was what I was meant to do. I was lucky enough to be accepted into an art program at Stratford High School, where I had the privilege of being mentored by the incomparable Jana Stiffel. Jana’s guidance and encouragement were invaluable to me, and she helped me to realize that attending the Rhode Island School of Design was the next step in my artistic journey.Attending RISD was an amazing experience – I was able to learn from some of the most talented artists in the world and further develop my artistic voice and style. Since graduating, I’ve been working as a live painter and fine artist, creating pieces that are both breathtaking and thought-provoking. I’m incredibly proud of the work that I’ve been able to create so far, and I’m always striving to push myself further and continue growing as an artist. It’s been an amazing journey, and I feel incredibly lucky to be able to do what I love every day.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Looking back on my journey, I have faced my fair share of challenges. There have been times when I’ve doubted myself, setbacks that have made me question my path, and difficult decisions that required me to step out of my comfort zone. However, each challenge has helped me to grow stronger, more resilient, and more determined than ever to succeed. I’ve learned that challenges are a natural part of any journey, and it’s how we choose to respond to them that truly matters. By staying focused on my goals, believing in myself, and never giving up, I’ve been able to overcome every obstacle in my path. While my journey hasn’t been without its challenges, I can say with confidence that it’s been well worth it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Live painting at events and fundraisers is one of my greatest passions. There’s something truly magical about the experience of creating art in real-time, surrounded by a community of people who are united in their desire to make a positive impact in the world. I have been creating Live Art and have raised over $250,000 for philanthropic endeavors through my paintings. My expertise in creating live art comes from years of painting in the studio.
Months before the event, I spend hours getting the composition and theme just right, creating a digital mock-up on the computer with multiple revisions. Once the composition is approved, I spend many hours sketching and preparing the canvas surface. When the event begins, I am hyper-focused, with over 35 brushes laid out next to my paint palette. I must make every brush stroke count and don’t waste any time cleaning my brushes to change colors. It requires calculated precision, with no room for mistakes, which sets me apart as one of the best live art painters in the country.
As a result of my expertise, I am invited and fly all over the country to create my masterpieces live. My artwork can be found in hospitals, such as the Texas Children’s Epilepsy Wing, the Breast and Bone Center, and St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis. My paintings are also featured in Houston’s Hobby Airport, Pappasito’s, Pappas Brothers, Town Lake, and hotels across the country. Chevron, one of my commercial clients, commissioned me and my team of artists to produce a huge fine art installation for their public art collection in Houston, Texas.
For me, live painting is more than just a way to showcase my artistic talents. It’s an opportunity to connect with others on a deeper level, to engage with them on a personal and emotional level through the power of art. I love being able to see the joy that my art can bring to people, and to share my passion and creativity with others. But perhaps what I love most about live painting is the sense of purpose it brings. Knowing that my art is helping to support organizations with amazing causes is incredibly fulfilling. Whether it’s raising funds for a local charity or supporting a national movement for social justice, I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to use my talents to make a difference in the world.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk-taking.
As for how I think about risk-taking, I believe it is an integral part of being an entrepreneur. Every creative project requires the absolute best of me and requires that I be more creative than I have been in the past. I am required to push myself and push boundaries. Taking risks has led me to some of my greatest successes, but it has also taught me valuable lessons and helped me grow as an artist and as a person.
Live Painting event
This original painting, created by native Houstonian, Jamie Wells, was painted live for the Stoney Creek Ranch Gala and auctioned off live and raised $26,000 for Houston’s Urban youth to attend summer camp for free. The portrait, painted in a contemporary pop style, depicts Jeremy Peña in mixed media over a substrate composed of authentic vintage baseball trading cards. The painting measures 48 x 36 x 2 inches and was inspired by Peña‘s magnetic smile, prestigious performance, and leadership. In 2022, Peña became the first rookie shortstop to win a Gold Glove Award and the first to hit a home run in the World Series. During the Astros’ 2022 championship run, Peña was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) of both the American League Championship Series (ALCS) and World Series (WS), becoming the first American League (AL) player to earn both awards in the same year. He was the youngest position player to win the World Series MVP award.
Contact Info:
- Website: jamiewells.com
- Instagram: @jamiewellsart
Image Credits
J. LaCour Photography (JLaCourPhotography.com)
