Born to a rural part of the Mississippi Delta, Jason began drawing at an early age – “actually, for as long as I can remember!” By age 10, he found himself relocated Greensboro, Alabama, where he graduated from Southern Academy in 1992. Jason went on to attend Shelton State Community College in Tuscaloosa on an art scholarship, awarded by the renowned artist Bethany Windham Engle. Later, graduating with a degree in Studio Art, and promptly began a career in graphic design. All while continuing to hone his artistic abilities by doing various portraits of his kids, family, and the occasional pencil and pen commission. It wasn’t until June of 2021, following another move this time to Uniontown, AL, where he began his journey learning mastery techniques of oil painting. He mentions finding muse in the use of glazes and mediums to achieve the three-dimensional effects and realism in his oil paintings. “I ensure that each piece is of archival quality and will last a lifetime. I consider a great painting much like a building project – a solid base – a good foundation – carefully placed layers – and finally the details.”

When asked about finding his inspiration, Irvin states:

“There’s lots of really cool towns around Alabama that I just want to go and spend the weekend painting,” “People seem to really like local art, and that fits into my thing. I want my art to be useful, in a way. How can it be useful? I think it can touch people, remind them of home.” Discussing his admiration for past influential artists, He notes “NORMAN ROCKWELL is the artist who I admired the most growing up. I’ve come to love his interpretations of portrait art.” “Van Gogh would be another major inspiration” he recounts after a visit to the Van Gogh Exhibition: Immersive Experience in Birmingham, AL.

Jasons involvement in JAWS Fest comes naturally as he has always been a fan of the Blues and Jazz genre. “I’ve had a love for strong female voices ever since I heard Aretha Franklin sing for the first time.” This years theme, The Ladies of Jazz, was ideal inspiration for him. This year, Jason opted to create on a smaller scale than his typical works. Aiming to offer a larger selection and spotlight to the legendary ladies in their prime while offering a more affordable selection for festival attendees. After overcoming the age old challenge of finding the perfect public domain photos to use as references when painting, Jason has created a collection that celebrates the diversity and power of these ladies of jazz. When asked if he had any favorites from this collection, “The larger painting of Dinah Washington in full color is my favorite - she is from Tuscaloosa, AL - and I think she is absolutely stunning.”

In addition to his work as a visual artist, Irvin is an accomplished musician himself. His band, the well-known bar rock outfit Fuzzy Navel, was active throughout the region in the 90s and early 00s. Today, he can be found recording music in the studio and busking around Alabama and the South under the name “Hock” (#HockMusic on social media).

You can find Jason on Social Media!

Facebook: Jason Irvin Fine Art , Hock Music

Instagram: Jason Irvin Fine Art