“Life can be one big swipe file.” —Jean

James Jean (casually known as J.J.) was born in 1979 in Taipei, Taiwan. At the age of three, he moved with his family to New Jersey, U.S.A. And like most illustrators, he began drawing before he could remember.

James’ natural talent led him to pursue studies at the SVA (School of Visual Arts) in New York City — where he graduated with a BFA in the year 2001. His recognition in the arts followed by receiving a $10,000 Jellybean Photographics Prize at the Society of Illustrators, a Gold Award at the Society of Illustrators LA, and his work being published in American Illustrator 22.

Currently, James Jean is a freelancer for DC/Vertigo comics, where he creates monthly covers for the Eisner Award winning series FABLES, and BATGIRL. He is also founding member and contributor for the online comics collective, “Meathaus.” His life and passion have revolved around comics, from a consistent style that prevails both character drawing to personal paintings. James artwork blends medias such as watercolor, oils, computer work, and sketching — and his compositions are well thought out that they frequently reference to art history, religion, and societal perversion. In addition, the body of his work shows an awareness and respect for both Western and Eastern culture.

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