about brian d. oakes
my journey: redefining sports stadium art
I was born and raised on Long Island, New York, but in 2022, I finally made the move to my dream city—Seattle, Washington. Even as a kid, I knew I was drawn to architecture. I would spend hours fascinated by photos of the landmark Space Needle, mesmerized by its futuristic design and the way it stood as an icon of an entire city. But my love for architecture didn’t stop there. I was equally captivated by historic marvels like the Chrysler Building, the Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge—structures that told the story of innovation, resilience, and timeless design.
As I grew older, my appreciation for architecture deepened, especially as I studied the work of Frank Lloyd Wright. His ability to blend form and function, creating spaces that felt both bold and organic, had a profound influence on how I approach my own work. Wright didn’t just design buildings—he created experiences, seamlessly integrating architecture into its surroundings. That philosophy stuck with me, and when I began creating my own artwork, I wanted to do the same—capturing not just the physical structure of stadiums but the emotions, energy, and memories that live within them.
where passion meets process
My creative journey began when I realized I could merge my love for sports with my background in design. I set out to create pieces that aren’t just literal representations of iconic venues but dynamic interpretations that capture the energy, history, and spirit of each arena. Using a mixed-media approach that blends digital sketches, painting, and detailed blueprints, I work to capture every nuance—from the curvature of a stadium’s roof to the raw emotion of a game-winning moment. Unlike traditional sports posters that you’d find in a college dorm, my work is designed to be artistic, sophisticated, and versatile—something that can hang in any room and spark conversation, even with your fiercest sports rivals.
celebrating iconic venues across america
While I’m incredibly proud of my work and some of my favorite sports venues, my art spans far beyond one city. I’m inspired by the timeless charm of Yankee Stadium, the vibrant energy of Dodger Stadium, and the storied history of venues like Gillette Stadium and Soldier Field. Having spent significant time in Boston, I’ve come to cherish the historic charm of TD Garden and Fenway Park. As a passionate New York Rangers fan, however, nothing compares to the atmosphere of Madison Square Garden—my favorite arena. I’ve also brought to life modern hubs such as MetLife Stadium, Globe Life Field, and my new hometown’s very own Lumen Field and T-Mobile Park. Each venue tells its own story, and my goal is to capture its essence in a way that resonates with fans everywhere.
working with sports franchises: a fortunate collaboration
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate enough to work with several sports franchises, experiences that have had a profound impact on my creative vision. One of the most pivotal moments in my career was working on the creative designs and initial stadium rights sales presentations for the new football stadium in Seattle. That project allowed me to blend sports and architectural design on a grand scale and solidified my belief in the deep connection between a stadium’s structure and the memories created within it. These collaborations have helped shape my artistic approach, enabling me to capture the spirit of sports in a way that goes beyond the game itself.
fan-inspired, artist designed
One of the aspects I love most about my work is the ability to make each piece uniquely personal. I love giving my clients the option to add a custom message to a canvas wrap. For an even more personal touch, I also offer the chance to include a reference photograph, seamlessly woven into the stadium piece. This transforms the artwork into a one-of-a-kind creation made exclusively for them—a true reflection of their personal connection to the game.
a living gallery of sports history
My work has evolved into more than just a collection of prints—it has become a living gallery that celebrates the spirit of sports and the stadiums that define them. Every piece reflects my journey, my passion for the game, and the countless memories that continue to inspire me every day. My goal is to create art that doesn’t just belong in a fan cave but can be proudly displayed in any space—sophisticated, artistic interpretations that capture the magic of game day while elevating any room’s aesthetic.
