Check Out James Ayers’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to James Ayers.

Hi James, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve been painting most of my life. I grew up drawn to art and ended up studying at the Rhode Island School of Design, where I learned the traditional side of painting. After college, I traveled a lot across the U.S. and abroad, learning from different cultures and landscapes.

Over the years, my work shifted from figurative subjects to something more contemporary. Today, I focus on landscapes that mix modern and traditional techniques — oil paint layered with spray paint and crayon. My goal is to create paintings that feel alive, that capture movement and the connection between people and nature.

I’ve been based in Scottsdale for several years now. It’s a great place for an artist — the light, the desert, and the mix of tradition and modern life all show up in my work.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been smooth, but I think that’s part of being an artist. Early on, there were plenty of years of figuring out how to make a living doing what I love. I painted in small studios, took on side work, and kept learning through trial and error.

Even now, the balance between creating and running a business can be tough. There’s a lot more to being a full-time artist than just painting — it’s marketing, photography, shipping, and all the behind-the-scenes work. Losing help in the studio this year made that even harder.

But I’ve learned that persistence matters more than perfect conditions. Every obstacle pushed me to simplify, focus, and trust the process.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a painter known for blending traditional oil techniques with modern materials like spray paint and crayon. My work often sits between realism and abstraction — landscapes that feel familiar but carry an energy that’s contemporary.

I’m most proud of how my process evolved over the years. It took a lot of experimenting to find a voice that feels honest to me. I love that my paintings still honor the roots of oil painting while pushing the boundaries of what it can be.

What sets my work apart is the combination of texture, motion, and mood. I want each piece to feel alive — like the landscape is breathing. Collectors often say my paintings feel both classic and new at the same time, and that balance is what I’m always chasing.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I was curious and always making things. I drew all the time and loved being outdoors. I liked to figure out how things worked — whether it was paints and paintbrushes, a model kit, or tools in the garage.

Sports were a big part of my life too. I played soccer, basketball and lacrosse through high school, and that taught me discipline and focus — qualities that later carried into painting.

I’ve always had a mix of creativity and drive. Even as a kid, I liked getting lost in projects and seeing them through. That part hasn’t changed much.

Pricing:

• Original oil paintings range from approximately $1,000 to $20,000, depending on size and complexity.
• Fine art prints and reproductions are also available through my website and galleries

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jamesayers.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesayersart
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamesayersstudios
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JamesAyersArt
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@jamesayersart