About James
I create world-class miniature painting experiences by bringing internationally renowned artists together with passionate hobbyists. Through Rising Ape workshops, educational content and community events, my goal is to inspire creativity, make learning accessible and help painters of every level reach their potential.
My Story
Miniature painting has been one of the great passions of my life for more than two decades.
Like many people, I started with a handful of Warhammer models, a few well-used brushes and a desire to improve. That journey has grown into a lifelong love of the hobby and a mission to help others discover just how rewarding miniature painting can be.
While I continue to develop my own painting skills, my greatest contribution to the hobby has been creating opportunities for others to learn. Through Rising Ape Painting Workshops, I organise and host intimate masterclasses taught by some of the world's most respected miniature painters, giving hobbyists the rare opportunity to learn directly from artists they have admired for years.
Every workshop is designed around one simple philosophy: remove the barriers and let people focus on painting. From carefully selected venues and small class sizes to great food, a welcoming atmosphere and a supportive community, I aim to create an experience where everyone—whether attending their first class or refining competition-level skills—feels comfortable, inspired and valued.
Beyond the workshops, I share my own painting journey through videos, articles and social media, documenting both the successes and the mistakes along the way. I firmly believe that great painters are made through curiosity, practice and a willingness to keep learning, and that's the attitude I try to encourage in everyone I meet.
The miniature painting community is one of the most generous and creative communities in the world. If I can play a small part in bringing people together, introducing them to incredible artists and helping them leave a workshop more confident than when they arrived, then I've achieved exactly what I set out to do.
Whether you're looking to improve your painting, meet like-minded hobbyists or learn from some of the best miniature artists in the world, I'd love to welcome you to a Rising Ape workshop.
