In Claremore, Oklahoma, you'll find a remarkable young artist named James Northweather. At only 22 years old, James is dedicated to infusing his hometown with vibrant color and creativity. More than just an artist, he embodies the spirit of the “friendly neighborhood artist,” striving to make a positive impact through both his art and his faith.

James has lived in Claremore his whole life, and he genuinely loves the place. He appreciates the friendly people and the strong sense of community, saying, "The people are pretty alright and the Lord is here." This environment has played a significant role in shaping his artistic journey.

With a mission to be the "cartoon kid" every neighborhood needs, James offers all kinds of custom artwork. His portfolio is diverse, including personal requests, murals, window paintings, painted wood cutouts, comic art, and portrait art at local events and festivals. Each piece he creates has a bit of his personality and flair.

James credits his dad, John Northweather, for giving him the freedom to explore his artistic side. John encouraged James from an early age, allowing him to spray paint his bedroom walls and supporting his early event entries. His grandma, Brenda, has also been a huge influence, teaching him about faith and guiding him to know God through her prayers.

For James, "painting windows for Claremore and surrounding towns, adding color to every avenue and boulevard" is more than just work; it’s a passion. He also showcases his portrait art at the Rogers County Fair every year, which has helped him build a solid reputation as a local artist.

Even with his successes, James has faced challenges. Pursuing a career in art isn’t the norm in his community, and he often finds himself walking a path with no clear guide. But he embraces this journey with what he calls "reckless faith," learning from the business owners he paints for and applying those lessons to his own life.

James believes in living purposefully and giving back. He encourages others to "add color, live for Jesus, relieve stress in the hearts of people who may relate to me in some ways." His approach is all about serving others, making the most of what he has, and keeping a laid-back attitude through life’s ups and downs.

He often reminds himself and others that, "Caring less isn't the same as being careless. Stop soaking in worry, but if you are worried, don't spend all your time trying to feel better before getting up and walking in a bit of faith." This perspective helps him understand that while we can't control everything, we can trust that things will work out in the end.

If you’re interested in his work or just want to reach out, James is easy to contact. You can email him at jnort211520@gmail.com or call him at 918-644-0648. He’s also active on social media, so check him out on Facebook under "James Northweather" and on Instagram as "classworksketches."

In a world that can feel chaotic, James Northweather is a reminder of the beauty that art can bring. His dedication to his craft, his community, and his faith shows just how powerful creativity and connection can be. As he continues to paint his hometown with his unique vision, he inspires others to embrace their passions and step boldly into their own journeys.