Blinks was born into an agricultural family in the English town of Bolton, Lancashire, and from an early age showed a great aptitude as an artist. He pursued a formal education in the arts under George Perkins. While little is known about the early development of his work, he developed a reputation as a dog portraitist. His love of dogs and skill in portraying various breeds brought him into close contact with socially prominent dog fanciers such as Lorna the Countess of Howe, whose associations with the Royal Family brought Blinks into contact with the highest echelons of British society.