Detroit Drawn One Sketch at a Time

The JW Blog is a personal blog about Detroit, told through original illustrations and straightforward writing. Each post covers a real place, moment, or piece of the city, from street corners to local events. No sponsored content, no filter, just a sketchbook and a city worth documenting.

The JW Blog

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What the Cass Corridor scene got right about client work
detroit art scene

What the Cass Corridor scene got right about client work

Detroit's Cass Corridor art scene thrived on community and bold experimentation. Learn how those core principles still drive successful creative work with clients today.

James Whitfield
Why I Keep Coming Back to Spirit of Detroit
illustration

Why I Keep Coming Back to Spirit of Detroit

The Spirit of Detroit statue hits different when my ideas run dry. I'll share why staring at that massive fist in the sky actually helps me finish my work instead of getting stuck.

James Whitfield
The Forgotten Typography of Detroit's Coney Island Menus
detroit typography

The Forgotten Typography of Detroit's Coney Island Menus

Discover how Detroit's forgotten menu designs and restaurant signs tell amazing stories about the city's past. You'll explore the bold lettering and creative logos that made Coney Island restaurant...

James Whitfield
How Motown record sleeves still shape my composition choices
motown

How Motown record sleeves still shape my composition choices

Motown record sleeves are a masterclass in composition. From Berry Gordy's color choices to bold framing shifts, the visual lessons from Detroit's golden era still hold up.

James Whitfield
I Made a Hamtramck Zine Nobody Asked For
zine making

I Made a Hamtramck Zine Nobody Asked For

I created a zine about Hamtramck with my own illustrations, even though nobody requested it. Learn how I discovered the power of making art for yourself and what mistakes taught me the most.

James Whitfield
How Eastern Market Murals Changed My View of Scale
street art

How Eastern Market Murals Changed My View of Scale

Walking past massive murals in Eastern Market made me rethink how size shapes impact. I realized that bigger art doesn't always tell better stories—sometimes the smallest details matter most.

James Whitfield

Browse the latest posts to see what has been drawn and written recently, or head to the About page to learn more about the blog and how it started.