Bill Jekel

Bill Jekel’s Early Training

Bill Jekel (1927–2000) was born in Pueblo, Colorado, and grew up in Los Angeles. He studied art at UCLA and the Art Center School before entering the United States Navy in 1944. Jekel worked as a scenic artist at MGM both before and after his naval service.

While studying law, he frequently joined George Gibson, Emil Kosa Jr., Duncan Spencer, John Coakley, and other studio artists on plein-air painting trips. These artists practiced close observation on location while developing work outside the demands of the studio.

Bill Jekel at MGM

Jekel began his Hollywood career as an apprentice scenic artist at MGM. His training connected fine-art practice with the scale, speed, and precision required to paint backdrops for motion pictures.

He later opened his own scenic painting company to produce backdrops for film, television, and commercial productions. His credits include Ship of Fools (1965), Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner (1967), and Mackenna’s Gold (1969).

Coast Backings and Film Fare

Bill Jekel became the sole owner of Coast Backings, where MGM-trained artists continued to pass their methods to a younger generation. Wilbur and Warren Ferrell received important early training while working for Jekel at the company. Wilbur assisted Duncan Spencer, while Warren assisted Bob Oberbeck.

Jekel also founded Film Fare with his twin brother, Gus. Working from Paramount Studios, the company created painted backdrops for films and television commercials. Jekel later sold his backdrop assets to J.C. Backings. The Art Directors Guild records that J.C. Backings purchased the Coast Backings collection in 1972.

Bill Jekel’s Watercolors and Vineyards

Jekel maintained a fine-art practice alongside his scenic career. His early watercolors depict Los Angeles cityscapes in the California Style. From the 1960s onward, he painted carefully observed ranches, coastlines, California landscapes, and Nevada deserts, often working directly on location. He was also a member of the Nevada Watercolor Society.

In 1972, Bill Jekel founded Jekel Vineyards in Monterey County. The winery released its first vintage in 1978 and became an early advocate for Monterey County wine production. Jekel and his wife, Pat, later sold the winery in 1990.