Art that speaks life

Jim McMahel is an artist and speaker. Former Disney artist, founder of Blue Cat Fine Art. He paints on stages around the world to make God famous.

My story

I was given away at three. I grew up poor in rural Indiana and left high school with a 1.8 GPA. I got turned down from Ringling College before I ever got in. Art became my life’s work all the same.

Now I paint with purpose: to remind people they’re seen, they’re chosen, and their story isn’t finished.

I live in Central Florida with my wife Cindy and our family. Together we lead the Revelation Collective, a weekly creative discipleship community, and Blue Cat Fine Art, where a portion of everything we do goes to help orphans and foster children find families.

Jim

Watch his origin story

Jim McMahel years ago, kneeling by a lake with his two young sons on his knees

Jim McMahel and his young son in Santa hats in front of a Christmas tree

Jim McMahel painting the words For the Least of These on a canvas on stage, black and white

Blue Cat Fine Art

View Jim’s art

Blue Joy, a laughing child painted on a blue field, from Jim McMahel's For the Least of These series

The King, Red, a lion's face in red and orange brushwork, by Jim McMahel

Tree of Life, a white tree with spreading roots on a red field, by Jim McMahel

Originals, limited editions, and commissions are available through Blue Cat Fine Art. A portion of every sale supports adoption and foster care.

Speaking and Live Painting

Jim has painted and spoken for audiences around the world, in churches, conferences, galas, and corporate events. Some hosts invite him to paint live on stage. Others ask him to speak about his adoption, his path from rural Indiana to Disney, and what almost thirty years as a working artist have taught him about identity and calling.

What does an event with Jim look like? That gets shaped with each host, to fit the room, the audience, and the occasion.

Jim McMahel years ago in a purple shirt, brushing broad red strokes onto a tall white canvas at an event

Jim's canvas taking shape during a live painting

Jim McMahel painting a figure with raised arms and the words Healed by Jesus on a church stage under purple light

Jim McMahel in a blue blazer painting a portrait of a child in a white hat on stage at a gala

Jim McMahel seen from behind in a denim jacket lettered HOPE, working on an orange canvas

Michael the Archangel, a winged figure raising a sword against a blue sky, painted by Jim McMahel

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Testimonials

“Disney taught me that truly exceptional creative talent is rare, even when you’re surrounded by some of the most creative people in the world. Jim is one of those rare talents. … If you have an opportunity to hear Jim speak, learn from him, or work alongside him, take it.”
Don Gleason, MBA

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“Disney taught me that truly exceptional creative talent is rare, even when you’re surrounded by some of the most creative people in the world. Jim is one of those rare talents. We worked together in that demanding environment, and I saw firsthand his remarkable artistic ability, imagination, communication skills, and commitment to excellence. Add to that a deep and abiding faith that grounds who he is, and you have someone very special. If you have an opportunity to hear Jim speak, learn from him, or work alongside him, take it.”

“As I began asking about leaders in the arts and entertainment community, one name kept coming up: Jim McMahel. … He is deeply respected by creatives throughout Central Florida, not only for his considerable creative gifts, but also for his character, integrity, and leadership.”
Jim Subers, CEO, Vision Orlando

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“When I moved to Central Florida to work in the city-reaching space, one of my first priorities was to identify key faith leaders in each of the seven major arenas of influence in our community. As I began asking about leaders in the arts and entertainment community, one name kept coming up: Jim McMahel.

I reached out to Jim, and he immediately welcomed me to the city. I quickly discovered why so many people spoke so highly of him. Jim is a man who genuinely loves God, his family, and his community. He is deeply respected by creatives throughout Central Florida, not only for his considerable creative gifts, but also for his character, integrity, and leadership.

Whether through the organizations he leads, the boards on which he serves, or the relationships he has built across the community, Jim consistently uses his influence to serve others and make our city better. I am grateful to call him both a trusted leader and a friend.”

“What distinguishes Jim is his love for the Lord Jesus Christ and how that love impacts his entire art and career. His art is real, honest and personable. It makes you think and reflect on where you are going in life and on what truly matters.”
Henrique Franhani, Filmmaker

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“Jim to me is a mentor, a brother, and a friend. I’ve known Jim for the past 6 years and he has been the one person that Jesus has used the most in helping me and molding me into the filmmaker I am today. Working with him is more than just about work, is about ministry and pouring into the next generation.

What distinguishes Jim is his love for the Lord Jesus Christ and how that love impacts his entire art and career. His art is real, honest and personable. It makes you think and reflect on where you are going in life and on what truly matters. His real distinction though is how much he loves on people as he is teaching and mentoring them.

If you have a creative project that you need help with, a book, movie, art, etc… Jim is your guy! He’s patient and loves to teach and encourage others towards the true meaning of life found in Jesus and how to use your talents for His glory!”

Let’s Connect

Have an event coming up? A question for Jim, or a piece you would like him to paint?

Email: jim@bluecatfineart.com