“We can’t change our past, but we can influence our futures for the better.”
As a Tradigital Artist and Designer, I bri ng together traditional and digital techniques—Tradigital—inspired by sci-fi, abstract art, music, and nature.
My main reason to create is to try to inspire a more positive future for all.
James William Crofton Abell
Origins & Early Inspiration
EARLY YEARS
Born in the United Kingdom in Derby (1975) and raised in North Norfolk, I grew up with big skies, 80s/90s culture, and influences like sci-fi films and a wide range of music.
At Edinburgh College of Art, I studied applied design specialising in Interior Design, gaining a BA (HONS). After that, I worked on major visualisation projects for robotics, renewable energy, and games, with features in 3D World Magazine and Channel 4 festivals. NASA used one of my Hubble Telescope 3D models.
New Phase
From 2014 I undertook self guided residencies at FabLabs in Montreal, London, and Iceland expanding my creative tool literacy with 3D printers and laser cutters. Montreal’s Expo 67 grounds, especially Habitat 67, profoundly influenced my work.
Recently, I took some time out as a digital nomad and taught workshops in FabLabs in India and Nepal while working on my own maker projects there. This further increased my skills as a tradigital artist.
I am currently, based near Glasgow, UK. I make art and make commissions for people and organisations. I also tutor online and onsite. As an online 3D design mentor, I help people to achieve their creative dreams. I help to optimise creative workflow optimization for professionals.
Galleries & Shows
The Paxton Centre, Crystal Palace
LONDON, UK - AUGUST 2024
‘Futuremistic’ Solo Show
GLASGOW, UK - SEPTEMBER 2022
The Variety Bar Solo Show
GLASGOW, UK - JUNE 2019
Comic Con
GLASGOW, UK - 2017
Lur Festival
LUR, ICELAND - 2016
Thinking Drawing Exhibition
HASTINGS, UK - 2015
Art Residencies
West Fjords Residency
AUGUST 2016
FabLab Isafjordur
APRIL/JUNE 2016
FabLab London Residency
JULY/SEPTEMBER 2014
Echo Fab, Fablab Montreal
APRIL/MAY 2014
Software & Tools
Traditional Drawing
ALL MY LIFE
Sculpture
SINCE 1996
Construction
SINCE 1996
Casting
SINCE 2018
Blender
SINCE 2011
3ds Max
SINCE 2001
Adobe Substance Suite
SINCE 2016
3D Printing
SINCE 2014
Lasercutting
SINCE 2014
Generative AI Tools
SINCE 2022
Education
BA (HONS) Applied Design, Edinburgh College Of Art
1997-1999
First Year Art & Design Foundation Studies, Edinburgh College Of Art
1995-1996
Hobbies & Interests
I’m passionate about sustainable world travel and enjoy capturing new places through urban sketching. Swimming keeps me active, while creative meet-ups inspire fresh ideas. I also love hiking in nature and playing chess.
Get in touch
Contact me for latest CV at [email protected]
'THE CITY OF LONDON' BY JAMES ABELL