Meet James

I've been making things my whole life!

It started with flip books and comic strips in grade school—I even talked my way into getting them listed in the school library's card catalog. My first creative gig, at the age of 10!

Hanging out at my dad's architectural firm back in Toronto gave me an early appreciation for spaces, structure, and the way light moves through a room. Always looking for the frame, the angle, the story. It all shaped how I see the world—a relentless inspiration to sketch the beauty and form in the environment around me.

That eye for design became a career. I launched The Ship's Wake, built websites and brands, and learned that the work is always about people—every project a partnership, every deadline a promise kept.

That foundation led to a 16-year corporate career as an animator, video producer, and creative lead—hands-on in the work while managing design teams and producing executive-level video content for a Fortune 500 company.

Years ago, adventure took me to Newfoundland, Canada—where I discovered a deep appreciation for rugged coastlines, open water, the art of forging new connections, and the kind of beauty that stops you in your tracks. That sense of adventure never left. Taking chances, carving out a life on my own terms—it all led here. The water, the light (or lack of it at times), the wooden boats.

I'm thrilled to be here on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington with my wife Denise, three dogs, three pianos (don't ask), and a cat. Putting down roots and relaunching as Ship's Wake Media—backed by 24 years of creative leadership, a proven eye for visual storytelling, and the hard-earned title of Creative Director. This is where I'm building something that lasts.