James Whitfield
Detroit-born artist and storyteller James Whitfield brings local culture to life through vivid illustrations and heartfelt writing. He explores the city's hidden gems, neighborhoods, and history with a passionate creative eye. This author does not exist as a real individual.
Artiklar av James Whitfield
How Old Detroit Factory Signage Shapes My Lettering
How Detroit's old factory ghost signs and signage, like Vernors and Faygo, shape my hand-lettering as an illustrator drawing letters built to age well.
Why I Draw the Back Alleys of Detroit, Not Its Skyline
A Detroit illustrator on why I draw the city's back alleys, like The Belt behind the Z garage downtown, instead of its famous, polished postcard skyline.
What Eastern Market Taught Me About Color and Light
How Eastern Market in Detroit, with its painted sheds, produce stalls, and murals, taught me, a working illustrator, to see and use color in a braver way.
What the Fisher Building taught me about Art Deco linework
Discover how the Fisher Building's stunning Art Deco linework shaped one architect's entire design philosophy. Explore geometric mastery and timeless beauty.
I sketch at Belle Isle every Sunday for a year
One artist sketched at Belle Isle every Sunday for a year. Discover what they learned and how this daily practice transformed their art skills.
What the Cass Corridor scene got right about client work
Discover what the Cass Corridor scene got right about creative work. Learn how old artistic communities built lasting client relationships and success today.
Why I Keep Coming Back to Spirit of Detroit
Stuck on a creative piece? Learn why the Spirit of Detroit statue inspires writers and artists to break through blocks and find their next big idea.
I Made a Hamtramck Zine Nobody Asked For
I created a zine for Hamtramck and learned surprising lessons about art, community, and making something from nothing. Here's what happened.
The Forgotten Typography of Detroit's Coney Island Menus
Discover the hidden artistry in Detroit typography through Coney Island menus and forgotten designs. Explore unsung lettering that shaped the city's visual h...
How Motown record sleeves still shape my composition choices
Discover how Motown record sleeves still shape composition choices today. From color theory to framing, these iconic Detroit designs teach visual storytelling.
How Eastern Market Murals Changed My View of Scale
Eastern Market murals taught me that scale matters more than I realized. Discover how public art changed my perspective on size and impact.
Drawing the Packard Plant Before It Disappears
Artist documents the historic Packard Plant before demolition. Discover why this abandoned auto factory matters and see stunning sketches capturing its fadin...
Finding My Color Palette in a Detroit Winter
Discover how to find your perfect color palette during a Detroit winter. Learn styling tips to brighten dark seasons and express your personal style.