Meet Ben St. James | Cartoonist & Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ben St. James and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ben, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Authenticity and a sense of spontaneity. Since I handle everything from start to finish, if an idea feels right, I can run with it. I’ve been lucky to receive positive feedback so far.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My path as an artist took a few turns. I started with formal art training in high school but chose to study STEM in college, following my family’s advice and running a small courier service, which gave me the funding and flexibility to develop side projects. Eventually, I won awards for app designs and campus innovation. After switching to film and marketing, I released a game and some short animations that caught attention, leading to new opportunities and support.

Since then, I’ve been creating for small presses and working on pitch decks for filmmakers. My journey has taught me to stay adaptable and always learn from each step.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Hollywood Collectibles & Sushi

Morning: Start at Hollywood Boulevard, checking out Amoeba Music for vinyl, movies, and collectibles.
Lunch: Head to Katsuya Hollywood for fresh sushi with a trendy vibe.
Afternoon: Hit Funko Hollywood for custom figures and pop culture fun.

Day 2: Little Tokyo Gaming & Art

Morning: Visit Anime Jungle and Kinokuniya Bookstore in Little Tokyo for manga and collectibles.
Lunch: Sushi at Hama Sushi – casual but beloved for its authenticity.
Afternoon: Check out Japanese American National Museum for cultural insight.

Day 3: Mini Golf & Sushi Dinner

Morning: Start the day with some fun at Sherman Oaks Castle Park, where you can enjoy a round of mini golf surrounded by medieval-themed decor.
Afternoon: Cool down with arcade games inside Castle Park and maybe even try out the batting cages.
Dinner: Head to Sushi by H for a memorable, omakase-style sushi experience to end the day.

Day 4: Movie Buff Day in Hollywood

Morning: Tour Universal Studios Hollywood and check out The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Evening: Sushi dinner at Sugarfish in Studio City, followed by a retro film screening at The New Beverly Cinema.

Day 5: LA Gaming & VR Experience

Day: Head to Two Bit Circus for VR gaming and arcade action.
Dinner: Wrap up with dinner at Sushi Gen in Little Tokyo, known for its fresh sashimi.

Day 6: Griffith Park & Cinema Night

Morning: Hike up to Griffith Observatory and take in the city views.
Evening: Sushi at Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill in The Grove, then a movie at TCL Chinese Theatre.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shoutout to the incredible teams at BAM Entertainment, Knowledge Tree Films, and In The Spirit Entertainment! Your creativity, support, and trailblazing spirit have been truly inspirational. Thank you for setting the bar high and pushing boundaries in everything you do!

Website: https://benstjames.news.blog/

Twitter: https://x.com/benstjamesX

Other: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/48709837.Ben_St_James

https://www.tiktok.com/@st.jamesmedia?_t=8kM6Lyj2rzG&_r=1