XPayne

Xavier Payne (better known as XPayne) is an award-winning artist and illustrator. Born in Flint, Michigan, and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, Payne earned a BFA from Watkins College of Art Design and Film in 2014. He began his professional career as a graphic artist working for companies with clients like Target, Walgreens, and Wal-Mart. At the same time, XPayne moon-lighted as an illustrator working for celebs like Spike Lee and Issa Rae, and gaining support from the likes of Wesley Snipes and Martin Lawrence. In 2022, XPayne was named Best Artist of the Year by the Nashville Scene, where he is based. Today, XPayne works on large scale projects that add life to businesses and inspirational spaces for individuals in their homes. His work is characterized by bold colors, organic shapes and patterns, and powerful, whimsical characters in fantasy settings. Conceptually, XPayne’s is at the intersection of 90s aesthetics, Afrofuturism, and Pop Art. He believes that imagination is the foundation for growth and change. He has had work that was featured in the Source Magazine, and on HBO, and has worked for Coca-Cola, Clarks Shoes. He has been part of many exhibitions including the Frist Art Museum in Nashville and Webster Hall in New York City. Today, XPayne seeks to work with brands and collectors who see value in his creative vision of making the world a more colorful and imaginative place.