Founder of Art & Sip. After obtaining his Fine Art (Hons) Degree from Hertfordshire University in 2000, James ventured into the world of portrait painting. However, his passion for teaching led him to pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Art and Design.

For a rewarding span of seven years, James dedicated himself to teaching Art in secondary education. He took great joy in guiding students to discover their artistic talents.

Throughout his teaching career, James continued to explore various painting styles and techniques. From expressive portraits that captured raw emotions to abstract landscapes blending architectural elements with nature, he embarked on a creative journey of self-discovery.

It was during this exploration that James found his true artistic calling—a “natural” painting style. By allowing his subconscious to guide him, he was able to create landscapes that existed only as memories or unconscious recollections. This revelation brought him immense joy and solidified his decision to pursue a full-time career in art.

Still driven by a desire to inspire others, James embraced the popular “Sip & Paint” trend that originated in America. From here Art & Sip was born! James’s aim is to provide a fun and inclusive environment for people to explore their creativity. So, whether you’re looking to find a new passion to get those creative juices flowing or simply try something a bit diffferent, then take a look at our upcoming classes.