Born in Vidalia, Georgia, Jack was raised to appreciate creativity, hard work, and individuality. He loved to draw from an early age and did so constantly throughout his childhood. Jack’s family had a lot of artistic talent. One uncle, in particular, was a master woodcarver who fascinated Jack with his ability to translate the world around him into the medium of wood. Jack has long been compelled to master this same feat using various visual media. Jack was also greatly inspired by his mother, a talented musician, and his father, a farmer who took great pride and satisfaction in building.
Jack’s parents recognized and encouraged his love of art and supported his decision to study fashion design. When segregation prevented Jack from attending any southern fashion programs, his parents advised him to go to New York City. Jack studied at the Parsons School of Design, then a much smaller and more intimate school than it is today. School projects were critiqued by the likes of Geoffrey Beane, James Galanos, Norman Norell, Donald Brooks and Chester Weinberg. Jack recalls his time at Parsons as a profound experience.
Upon graduation, Jack attained a position with Coty Hall of Fame designer Kasper. He learned from a master, absorbing everything he could about design, fit, creating a collection, and presenting fashion shows. Jack developed his own label, which was featured in Saks, and he was highlighted by numerous publications including The New York Times and Women’s Wear Daily. An opportunity to work for Etienne Aigner beautifully rounded out his education as he absorbed the nuances of European markets and toured countless factories and mills in Italy and Germany. After several years in Europe, Jack returned to New York City and worked for various labels until 2009.
After 44 years in the fashion industry, Jack is finally realizing his dream to devote all of his time to the visual arts. In the past, he would always paint in his spare time, but it was never enough. Now, there are not enough hours in the day, or days in the week to paint all that has been pent up in his mind for years.
