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James Xavier Barbour

Teaches at The Decorus Atelier of Figurative Art

James Xavier Barbour is an American fine art painter and sculptor whose primary vehicle for expressing contemporary narrative or metaphor is the human figure. He is the founder, and director of Decorus Atelier of Figurative Art located in New York City and a principle instructor. He has taught for over 14 years as an instructor at Academy of Art University, and at other academic institutions, and conducts regular art workshops and seminars.

His talent for art developed at an early age, as well as his passion for human anatomy. His early years were self taught and more instinctual. He studied fine arts in the classical realist atelier tradition and art conservation while living abroad in Italy, and completed his undergraduate study at The Hartford Art School. He also studied at The Art Students League and has a Masters of Fine Arts degree from the New York Academy of Art. He has been fortunate to have studied with many of the world's most respected artists like Steven Assael, Vincent Desiderio, Deane Keller, Martha Mayer Erlebacher, Stephen Brown, Fred Wessel and many others.

He is endlessly curious, and has spent hundreds of hours studying the works of the old masters to better analyze their techniques, and observing human anatomy from dissected human cadavers in order to specialize in both artistic and forensic human anatomy. James is passionate about expressing the eternal or universal truths that bind us as human beings as well our differences. His work often contain a psychological narrative which dances on the edges of both reality and the surreal. He fearlessly captures those moments of life which appear an illusion or dream, but remain anchored in possibilty or reality. ​Themes explored can range from the chaotic "dark circus" of life around us and exploring human nature, to the affects of technology and industrial/ mechanical growth as we attempt to adjust and evolve. It is his firm belief that observation is a necessary component of a successful work of art and prefers to work strictly from life, model, and/or imagination.

​​He has won numerous artistic awards, grants, and has been featured in various publications, magazine articles, and films. His work can be found in many private and public collections around the world and on exhibition in various art museums and galleries across the United States and abroad. Recent exhibitions have included the Museo Arte Contemporanea Sicilia, Tampa Museum of Art, Peninsula Museum of Art, Six Summit Gallery, RH Gallery, as well as other exhibitions located in Italy, Australia, London, and in Japan.

He works from his studio based in New York City.

Reviews of James Xavier Barbour

(90 Reviews)
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Iktan A. on 3/24/2024
    The experience for my grandson was excellent! His progress was made all the better due to his professor who explained throughly where he could expand his knowledge. I’m looking forward to set up additional classes for him.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Anonymous review on 3/15/2024
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Sharise S. on 3/11/2024
    Very informative and beautiful space, makes you motivated to draw and feel out your own skills. James the instructor was so kind and made my sister and I feel right at home and help with drawing pointers. Best art class by far with demonstrations and kind words thay push us to be better.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Remy C. on 3/9/2024
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Albert D. on 3/7/2024
    James was among the best teachers I’ve ever had - patient, passionate, and devoted. Was such a pleasure to take his class!
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Abigail D. on 3/5/2024
    Incredible time! James genuinely works with each individual and meets them where they are at. I am an absolute beginner and felt comfortable leaning into the process and thoroughly enjoyed opening myself up to a new skill set!
  • Classical Drawing By Candlelight

    Reviewed by Jakob S. on 3/1/2024
    Amazing! The instructor is inspiring:) and givers one on one attention to you. Highly recommend
  • Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

    Anonymous review on 2/20/2024
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Aeden Z. on 2/19/2024
    Passionate teacher, generous with time, answered questions
  • Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

    Reviewed by Yenchi K. on 1/8/2024
  • Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

    Anonymous review on 11/20/2023
    I can't say enough about how amazing my first class was. James was extremely friendly, intelligible, and genuinely dedicated to helping me exceed. I left the class feeling motivated and excited to learn more.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Anonymous review on 10/10/2023
    James was amazing from the beginning of the class to the end. This is my first time taking drawing classes, I didn't know what to expect, but it was a small group and everyone was friendly and so talented working on their own pieces of art, I learned a lot. I was supposed to stay only two hours but James let me stay longer. I recommend this class, take it, you will not regret!
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Anonymous review on 8/12/2023
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Michael L. on 8/10/2023
    I loved working with James - he is very generous with his time and clearly has a passion for both teaching and art. It is a very unique space and program that he has set up, simply a one-of-a-kind experience. I will be coming back!
  • Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

    Reviewed by Silvia G. on 8/7/2023
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Helaina G. on 8/4/2023
    If you’re interested in learning how to draw- I’d highly recommend this class. James is really good at creating a welcoming environment, is obviously super knowledgeable and most importantly for me at least- really good at giving targeted, transferable and immediately actionable feedback in a firm but positive way. I really felt like he was looking closely at my work and really tailoring advice. The value honestly far exceeded the price and I’ve definitely paid more for less.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Amna A. on 7/28/2023
    The class was great! I am a total beginner with drawing and was able to learn a lot in just one class! Everyone at the school was kind and helpful
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Anna C. on 7/24/2023
  • Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

    Reviewed by Alex C. on 7/17/2023
    Knowledgeable instructor and intimate and friendly environment.
  • Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

    Anonymous review on 7/11/2023
    Really thorough informative class that is tailored to your skill level. I learned so much in the few hours of class and left energized and motivated to continue learning more. The instructor’s passion is contagious! Can’t wait to come back.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Justin G. on 7/4/2023
  • Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

    Anonymous review on 6/29/2023
    A fascinating and informative class! James takes his time to cater to the needs of his students and is enthusiastic about sharing his vast knowledge. Overall, a wonderful experience!
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Maia K. on 6/20/2023
    James was enthusiastic about the class. I told him what I want to learn, and he was trying to teach me as much as he could. I could def tell he is so good and amazing at his artwork so I would def take another class going forward. highly recommended
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Diego M. on 6/16/2023
    The class was beyond my explanations. Professor James is very knowledgeable and talented in his craft. Highly recommend!
  • Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

    Reviewed by Cynthia G. on 5/30/2023
    Fantastic class. I learned more in this one class than all my years taking art growing up. Highly recommend.
  • Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

    Reviewed by Hajra Heidi B. on 5/28/2023
    What an amazing class! The space was so cool and the students were super kind to eachother. James (the professor) was incredible. He was so supportive and had amazing tips to gain accuracy in my portrait drawing class. I can't wait to go back. This place is way more than just an art class; it's a school, a community, and a safe haven for all those lovers of art. Highly recommend. ❤️
  • Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

    Reviewed by Anna Christina M. on 5/17/2023
    I traveled from Denmark to take part in this class. It was a fantastic class with James. It was very inspiring and I learned a lot. I can absolutely recommend it.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by filip k. on 5/16/2023
    Absolutely for what I was searching for James is amazing i can absolutely recommend anybody this drawings class it’s not just a class but you will find a person in front of you that loves what he does and that’s the most important thing for me 110% yes if you are searching for a professional teacher they can explain you everything about art
  • Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

    Reviewed by Michele H. on 4/27/2023
  • Accelerated Portraiture Drawing

    Reviewed by Erin M. on 3/21/2023
    This class was amazing! The space is really cool and relaxing. The teacher, James is super knowledgeable. Overall, would highly recommend to anyone into/ trying to get back into drawing.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by fanny c. on 3/2/2023
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Anonymous review on 2/27/2023
    Outstaying class! Get lots of one on one instruction and learn a very structured way to learn how to draw. Will make me better at drawing for sure.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Panashe F. on 2/4/2023
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by OLGA S. on 2/1/2023
    Teacher was a very nice man, and good at what he does. Enjoyed the class, would recommend.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Marina M. on 1/8/2023
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Judson B. on 1/5/2023
    High energy. Lots of material. Careful hands-on instruction.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Weronika B. on 12/8/2022
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Ploy M. on 11/28/2022
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Char R. on 11/14/2022
    Wonderful and talented instructors (artists!). Who foster such a warm, welcoming and wonderfully creative environment. We are looking forward to the next set of classes.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Anonymous review on 11/14/2022
    Amazing class! James is a gifted, hands-on teacher and we learned so much about our strengths & weaknesses as artists. This definitely helped build on our foundational skills and we showed great improvement by the end of the class. Will 100% be returning!
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Anonymous review on 10/30/2022
    An amazing class. James is an incredible teacher. I feel very lucky to have found this class. I feel like I’ve grown as an artist after just one session
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Sudeep D. on 10/22/2022
    Excellent intro to drawing class - James was so kind and warm and made you feel excited to be there! He started with a quick tour and background of the school, then led us through some exercises that demonstrated so clearly the skill you’ve gained by the time the class was over. I definitely plan to sign up for additional classes.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Michael A. on 10/11/2022
    I took James class a few weeks ago. I had a great time and learned a lot just being there for a few hours . James is very talented and a great instructor . I felt a bit nervous at first but with his instructions and guidance made the experience feel a lot more comfortable. thank you !
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Anonymous review on 9/25/2022
    James is awesome and inspiring. His Atelier Method of instruction, was exactly what I looking for and I didn't even know it.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Anonymous review on 9/23/2022
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Sam S. on 9/19/2022
    Appreciate the masters of a craft. I give compliment to the attitude of master artist Jack Xavier Barber. I can compliment the instructions and information given by him that increased my knowledge. I determine that continuous occupation inside this Atelier facility will excel any persons ability at creating art. I love
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Cate H. on 9/17/2022
    James is so passionate about creating and teaching art, and he is an excellent, attentive teacher. Not a lot of art studios around here so I really appreciate finding this one.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Sam D. on 8/19/2022
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Marcus P. on 8/8/2022
    Incredibly grateful to have attended this session. Such a dope inviting space, James is such a phenomenal artist so just being able to see a combination of both his finished and unfinished work was so inspiring. Despite such a short session I feel like I truly walked away changed by our interaction not just from the exercise and all the tips he imparted but the conversations and being in the space and presence of such seasoned and serious yet humble artist was very motivational. Im eager to explore more course options with him in the future and would definitely recommend giving this course a try.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Thea M. on 8/7/2022
    James was amazing as an art teacher - would definitely come to do this next time I'm here!
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Jay K. on 8/5/2022
    I highly recommend James’ class! He is extremely talented, patient, generous and warm. James spent longer than the two hours allotted to teach my friend and me. He wanted to make sure it was a memorable experience for us. It was highly personalized. I left with much improved drawing ability. I am so glad I got to learn from such a wonderful instructor in James!
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by rachael l. on 6/28/2022
    The atelier was really a unique location and the teacher James is tremendously skilled tutor, & incredibly welcoming, with a vast knowledge base.Within the two hours I had learned so many techniques and it was great to see how much I developed & made progress in a few hours of the intro class. Due to the small class size the course offers some one-on-one focused tuition & James tailored his tutorial to my skill level. Hearing him encouraging & working with other students was very inspiring. I would highly recommend the class.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Anonymous review on 5/23/2022
    Great class, small class size with lots of 1 on 1 instruction!
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Alexander S. on 5/21/2022
    James was a very knowledgeable teacher. He was patient, offered great feedback, and guided me on how to improve. I would highly recommend this class for anyone wanting to be a better artist, including people like me who are just starting out!
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Candy S. on 5/1/2022
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Anonymous review on 4/18/2022
    FANTASTIC intro class. James was an incredible teacher and helped me progress more than I thought possible in a few hours. I highly recommend this course and will be back for more!
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Claudia D. on 2/27/2022
    This experience surpassed our expectations. It was such high quality, engrossing, and worthwhile. Prof. James spent so much time and took great care to meet us where we are and to inspire us to integrate an artistic practice into our daily lives. He is genuinely committed to the craft of teaching. Very down to earth and comfortable studios.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Anonymous review on 2/20/2022
    Hi, I learned a lot but was hoping for more people to be in the class. Overall though it was good
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Anonymous review on 2/12/2022
    Lots of fun. Learned a lot and made progress in my drawing.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Olive C. on 2/7/2022
    Prof. Barbour is very passionate about teaching all of his students his techniques to the best of his ability. I quite enjoyed picking up several new skills over the course of just a few hours! I was a bit nervous at first because learning a new skill is sometimes very intimidating, but he was kind and eager to teach me the basics. I would highly recommend visiting the Atelier for anyone interested in making art.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Giulianna P. on 1/27/2022
    This art class was very helpful. I learned a new technique on how to shade using cross hatching. The instructor was also very informative and provided good criticism. Also, he is a great painter. Have to check them out while you're there. Would definitely recommend!
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Rey R. on 1/21/2022
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by John M. on 1/10/2022
    This class was an excellent plunge into the world of visual arts for someone with enthusiasm but whose skills are rusty. James did a great job of diagnosing patterns in my technique from the outset and giving me tangible advice for which aspects to focus on. I also appreciated his tour of the studio space and his explanation of different pieces and the styles they represent. I would recommend this class to anyone looking to get their feet wet in drawing and anyone seeking a welcoming yet serious environment in which to practice.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Joe L. on 12/28/2021
    We spent an amazing time with James. His passion for art is infectious and his skill at teaching his love of art is truly a gift. Our time with him flew by as if transported to another realm, having to be dragged back to reality when we had to leave. In just a few hours our drawings went from mere scribbles to what actually looked like an ear. Most importantly he instilled in us the confidence and desire to continue our path to Art. We visited the MET the next day with a new and valuable perspective. We will definitely visit again.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Silvanna T. on 12/6/2021
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by John F. on 11/26/2021
    The Barbours are excellent teachers, each with an extensive history of art-making as well as a current, modern body of work. The class sizes are small and provide individual attention. Anatomy is studied rigourously as well as technique. Homeworks are encouraged. If requested they will also discuss their history with art, how to make money creating art in the digital age, and different materials and implements. In later classes, live models are used, but usually you work from Barque plates, figures, and statues. Great class, and worth your time if you're serious about drawing.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Uma M. on 11/21/2021
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Matthew A. on 11/8/2021
  • Cast Drawing and Developing Drawing Accuracy

    Anonymous review on 10/29/2021
    James is a patient and encouraging teacher. His class is a great mix of beginners and advanced students. The class is small enough that everyone gets the individual attention they need. The studio has a great welcoming vibe. I would highly recommend any of his classes. - D
  • Introduction to Écorché: Portrait Anatomy (Sculpture)

    Anonymous review on 10/25/2021
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Anonymous review on 8/5/2021
    Fantastic class. I really cant recommend it enough. James was attentive, experienced, and an all around excellent teacher. He managed to pinpoint the areas you needed the most help with and gave you feedback in a positive, motivating way. Everything from James's proficiency, warmth, and enthusiasm for art made me feel so lucky to have taken the class. It was a wonderful experience.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Luis T. on 8/3/2021
    James is a very charismatic and passionate person. I've never been good at art, but he has manage to teach me simple techniques to draw. Nevertheless, I highly recommend taking any of his drawing classes, for those who want to learn and experience something new.
  • Introduction to Écorché: Portrait Anatomy (Sculpture)

    Reviewed by David G. on 5/17/2021
    In short, this class was a revelation. When I signed up for this class I did not consider myself an artist, and certainly not a sculptor. James showed me otherwise. He is as talented a teacher, as he is a fine artist. I learned so much in this course. It’s more than just sculpting, it’s anatomy, philosophy, drafting, studying light and shadow and more. This class was honestly an inspiration. It allowed me to pursue artistic abilities I didn’t know I had. Abilities we all have and maybe just haven’t nurtured enough. I am proud of what I made and proud to call myself a sculptor now. I look forward to working with James again on another project and would highly recommend this class to anyone interested in sculpture. Two thumbs up. 10/10. 5-stars.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Miriam C. on 4/12/2021
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Aaron G. on 8/3/2020
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Aaron G. on 7/19/2020
    James took great pains to get me to see that I was working towards a greater artistic goal. He was patient, informative and resourceful. He made form and anatomy a pleasurable subject to study. I would not hesitate to attend his classes.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing (online)

    Reviewed by Leslie W. on 4/18/2020
    James is a wonderful teacher. I learned so many techniques for improving and making really great pencil drawings. Highly recommend this class!
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Erin M. on 3/16/2020
    What a special experience! From the moment I walked in, I felt so welcome, and the level of personal attention and the overall vibe was truly other-worldly. I kept wondering what the catch was, but I left feeling as if I was welcome to come back, but not pressured to. I think that will actually make it so much more likely I'll head back very soon!
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Molly H. on 2/22/2020
    Great class! Very patient and friendly teacher. Learned a ton
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Hunter L. on 2/19/2020
    Learning at Decorus has been an absolute pleasure. As I've spent more time there, I've seen how well and thoughtfully James adapts his teaching style to each new student. I've been amazed how much I've improved in the last month and could not recommend more highly.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Nyoka G. on 1/27/2020
  • Introduction to Écorché: Portrait Anatomy (Sculpture)

    Reviewed by Eric M. on 1/6/2020
    James is an excellent artist and teacher and all around great guy. He is inspiring to work with and seems to truly enjoy getting the best out of his students. This is a great starter starter course but also worth taking if you have some experience sculpting. James is very hands on, not afraid to criticize but also very motivational.
  • Cast Drawing and Developing Drawing Accuracy

    Reviewed by Diane B. on 8/18/2019
  • Accelerated Introduction to Sculpture

    Anonymous review on 6/10/2019
    Very explicit and simple.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Sculpture

    Reviewed by Ali A. on 5/3/2019
    It was a great experience, James was a great artist and teacher and super nice. The please from the inside was above my expectations, I thought it would be just a normal school but actually it was where James lives and it was full of great art pieces that was done by James, his wife and there students, there were a couple of rooms each one of them is for a different type of art. It was a good experience and I totally recommend it.
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Erika R. on 11/11/2018
    Hi! This was a lovely class. James and Laura were very gentle and with a lot of patience to explain different techniques. It has been a great experience. Also they give me many tips to improve my skills. I really recommend them! They are so profesional!
  • Accelerated Introduction to Drawing

    Reviewed by Adam M. on 10/8/2018
    In summary: The instructor has a near encyclopedic knowledge and superb technical skill with the philosophy of a true artist to back it up. In detail/My experience: The location at a glance, especially when you first arrive, seems peculiar but it absolutely does not reflect the inside. Once you enter and get a tour of the place, you definitely see how skilled and masterful the artists residing in this location. The teacher there really will try to understand you then guide your craft from the simple foundation. As such you really have to let go of your grounded understanding of art. You have to start from the beginning, master that, then you can continue on to more of the fun stuff from there. So if you're looking for a teacher that will give you the proverbial tools from becoming a flawed artist to a master of craft then this is the right place. Sign up, be patient, be willing, and be ready to learn.
  • Introduction to Écorché: Portrait Anatomy (Sculpture)

    Reviewed by Kent E. on 9/30/2018
    Brilliant - James is extremely meticulous and knowledgeable, as well as being a great teacher and communicator. Highly recommended if you would like to do something creative, instructive and different.
  • Introduction to Drawing and Critical Drawing Techniques

    Reviewed by Marcea D. on 9/22/2018
    Small class size, individualized care and attention. They meet the student at whatever level they are at and invested in helping them grow. Very genuine and kind teachers who helped me progress a lot in a short amount of time, thank you!
  • Cast Drawing and Developing Drawing Accuracy

    Reviewed by Molly N. on 7/28/2018
    Great instruction, extremely helpful and informative.

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