About Me

James Eric Hartzell grew up in Atlanta, Georgia where his previous career was focused on coaching soccer. The artist’s work is inspired by rural and urban experiences along with sports, nature, literature, pop-art, vintage illustration and sign painting.

James graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design in 2009 with a BFA in Illustration. He fell in love with mural painting in Savannah, working as an assistant on projects in Forsyth Park and the Savannah Mall. After multiple trips to the Dali Museum over the years, he fell in love with the unique culture and arts scene of Saint Petersburg, Florida which prompted a move to the area in 2015.

The artist immersed himself in the local arts community rekindling a passion for painting and drawing regularly. James has displayed in exhibits throughout the Tampa Bay Area and has completed mural work for clients both locally and internationally.

Giving back to the community through charity and volunteer work are incredibly important to the artist. James worked with local non-profit organization The Friends of the Jack Kerouac House, Inc from 2016 to 2023, served as a board member, helped to provide literary arts programming by curating art and poetry exhibitions, organizing design contests and fundraising events, creating video and social media content, hosting workshops and open mic nights. The artist was a board member of Gulf Coast Arts Alliance, manager of St Pete Artworks for 6 months and one of their display artists for 5 years. James is currently board member and Art Director of Ralph's Mob, a soccer supporters group.

When not making art you can find James cheering on the Tampa Bay Rowdies, guiding mural tours with FL CraftArt Gallery, cooking up a storm in the kitchen, biking around town, dancing with his wife or chilling out with his beloved, tree-climbing cat.

Studio 206 at The Artlofts - 10 5th Street North in St. Pete, FL
Portfolio: www.ArtByJamesE.com
Instagram: @artbyjamese
Phone: 404-444-5618