About Jim and why this work
Jim Mills never set out to be an artist. Creativity wasn’t a lifelong pursuit, but in his late 80s, that changed. With steady encouragement from his daughter Robin, painting became a new way to bring joy and meaning into his daily life. With further support from his family, caregivers, and an artistic mentor, Deb, Jim developed a quiet, personal style. His work has since been shared with friends and loved ones, including a calendar of selected pieces, reflecting the care and collaboration behind each painting.
Now 91, Jim has led a full and varied professional life in broadcasting, entrepreneurship, and international trade. After earning a degree in Speech from Northwestern University in 1956, he served in the U.S. Army’s Radio-TV division, where he hosted Star Time and interviewed entertainers of the era. He went on to lead J & H International Corporation, developing promotions and loyalty programs for supermarkets and gas stations. In the 1970s, as chairman of Fifield Mills & Company, he helped develop a residential community in Wilmette, Illinois. Later, he co-founded JMP-Newcor, a company that connected global dishware manufacturers with major U.S. retailers such as Walmart, K-Mart, and Target. In his final business venture, Masterpiece Editions, Jim worked with the Picasso family to reproduce artwork on ceramics and glassware for museums and retailers.
Throughout his life, Jim has remained deeply involved in community service. He served as board chair for CJE Senior Life and longtime supporter of Jewish and Chicago-based charities. He was also actively involved with GIRF Chicago, playing a key role in fundraising and helping to bring significant resources to gastrointestinal research. In many other cases, Jim gave quietly, supporting causes and people he believed in without seeking recognition. His generosity extended beyond business and philanthropy, showing up in creative and personal ways.
Jim is a longtime golfer who has enjoyed many years at Bryn Mawr Country Club in Illinois and Tamarisk West in California. He is also a proud father to Robin, Wendy, and Jason, and continues to explore painting as a meaningful part of this creative chapter of his life.
