#19 James Downs

James Downs is a true creative in every sense of the word. From sketching original furniture designs by hand to building the finished piece himself, he lives at the intersection of craftsmanship and imagination. James has upholstered furniture for the Oval Office under Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, designed dining chairs for U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, and created custom pieces for clients including Nick Saban.Tested with a 138 IQ in high school and once invited to meet President Ronald Reagan, James has always blended intellect with artistry. He’s written short stories and poetry, traveled to nearly every state in America, built his own high-end furniture line, and gathered stories along the way that range from celebrity encounters to gritty moments behind Atlanta dumpsters.