Artist James Coleman

James Coleman Biography

Synonymous with sweeping skies, tropical rain forests, rich deep woods and silent deserts, the images created by this talented man continue to delight all that view them.

Coleman was born in Hollywood in 1949. His interest in filmmaking and fine art would blossom into a long, successful career in animated films that began when Coleman’s mother got him a summer job in the Walt Disney Studio's mailroom.

James’ first break came when he entered one of his paintings in a studio art show. Several Disney artists viewing his work, saw great creative potential and encouraged him to go into animation background painting.

His first Disney film, Winnie, the Pooh and Tigger, too, sparked his interest not only in painting backgrounds but also in background design and color styling.

After completing, The Rescuers, his first feature film, Coleman was promoted to Background Department Supervisor, a position he would hold for nearly seventeen years. During that time, James styled and worked on twelve films and over 30 short subjects. Mickey's Christmas Carol, The Fox and the Hound, The Little Mermaid, and Academy Award-winning, Beauty and the Beast all came to life with Coleman's background images gracing the silver screen.

After 22 years with Disney, James left the studio in 1991 to devote all of his time and talent to fine art, creating luminous paintings that are warm, inviting and touch the heart. Because of his mastery of color, light and design, Coleman has become one of the most collected artists in the world.