Justin's Story

 

Justin Michael Wadlington, born and raised in Southwest Philadelphia, lost vision in his left eye at age five. Raised by his grandmother, in group homes, and by extended family, his path was anything but traditional. But art became his lifeline. Completely self-taught, Justin’s work now resonates with people from all walks of life—collectors, everyday admirers, and well-known figures. Through his brand, Blind Eye Visions, he’s creating space for artists like him to be seen and heard. His journey is living proof that where you begin doesn’t define where you can go, especially when led by purpose, vision, and heart.

Driven by doubt and the challenges of blindness in his left eye, Justin turned skepticism into motivation, determined to prove that limitations couldn’t define his path. Justin taught himself to draw and paint—starting with pencil sketches before evolving into full-scale portraits in acrylic on canvas. He studied online, leaned on mentors, and practiced relentlessly. He began by painting familiar faces from pop culture, not for celebrity attention, but because their stories of struggle and triumph mirrored his own. With bold color, layered symbolism, and themes of duality and resilience, Justin’s work spoke to many. In 2017, his art gained national attention when Kevin Hart shared a portrait Justin created of him. Soon, his work was in the hands of Shaquille O’Neal, Brooke Shields, Glenn Fuhrman, Ray Lewis, and other well-known collectors who prefer to remain anonymous. He has shown work at The New York Academy of Art and The FLAG Art Foundation, and been featured by CBS Philadelphia and The Philadelphia Inquirer. Still, Justin remains committed to accessibility, offering high-quality prints so more people can connect with his work.

Justin’s journey also drew the attention of production company Juice Groove Films, who turned his life story into Blind Eye Artist, a full-length documentary now streaming on Amazon Prime and Tubi. Justin is currently featured in a solo exhibition at Gracie Mansion, the Official Mayor’s Residence of New York, titled Last Train to Grace, celebrating New York’s 400th Anniversary. Justin's story is still be written.