M8 of August 2021 - Travis James
Sometimes it’s the adversities we face in life that propel us to the path that leads us to live our best lives. It certainly appears to be the case for our M8 of August, Brisbane based Travis James. Diagnosed with Scoliosis as a teenager, Travis had to undergo major back surgery to correct his spine and it was during his recovery that he turned to art which he found great joy in and a way to express his thoughts on canvas.
Excelling in the Arts in highschool then led him to studying Graphic Design in his early twenties which eventually led him to his passion, Digital art. Although he also enjoys creating painted artworks of landscapes and seascapes, it was the simple gifting he received one Christmas of an iPad that got him curious about the different types of apps and tools he could use to create magic.
With boundaries only limited to his imagination, Travis found this medium allowed him to create cartoons and illustrations that not only spoke to him but people everywhere. He wants us all to get lost in another world, a cheeky and fun world and we’re here for it!
NAME: Travis James
AGE: 33
CURRENT POSITION: Designer/artist
WHERE IS YOUR HOME TEAM: GoldCoast
WHO DO YOU PLAY FOR NOW: Brisbane
WHAT’S YOUR GAME PLAN: To keep creating artwork for my website (tjdrawaustralia.com) and sell my art across the world. Focus on my health/fitness goals as well as checking in on my mental health which is usually taken care of when I pick up a pencil or when I open the gym doors.
WHAT’S YOUR STRATEGY TO ACHIEVE IT: To educate myself on the business side of E-commerce and to have daily goals that add up to the big goals that I want to achieve.
LIST 1 OR 2 ‘GOLD MEDAL’ MOMENTS IN YOUR LIFE:
2017 was a tough year and I decided to quit my job, leave Melbourne and everything behind and book a tour through Italy/Paris/London. I would visit art galleries everyday which was like gold for my soul at the time and reconnected with myself again which was empowering. I moved to London in 2019 which was really out of my comfort zone. It was a great experience to meet so many inspiring people and to explore different parts of the city. I also visited the South of France which was one of my top places to visit. Staying in Nice then Monaco was so amazing, It definitely filled up my gratitude cup.
Studying graphic design and graduating was such a great achievement and proud moment as well, I learnt great things that sometimes do take time.
WHO ARE YOUR CHAMPIONS: My mum has been one of my greatest teachers, I’ve learnt to have compassion and perseverance from her. Mariah Carey has been someone I look up to as well not just because of her talents as a songwriter/singer but as someone who has also persevered through her own struggles in her life and found her passion and talents.
IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT MAKES AN EVERYDAY CHAMPION:
Someone who never gives up. Leaves tomorrow in the past and starts each day fresh with determination and a new mindset.
WHAT’S YOUR MOTTO:
No stress No drama. Live life in the moment and plan for the future.
You can find the drawings of Travis at his website
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