Jack Straker - Heavy Painter
Polymer Clay Artist

My mother said to me, "If you are a soldier, you will become a general. If you are a monk, you will become the Pope." Instead, I was a sculpter, and became Straker.
J. Straker

Jack refers to his medium as 'heavy paint'; off the record, he is a poly-clay sculptor who works with Du Kit, the New Zealand made polymer clay.

In the early nineties Jack worked for the Department of Conservation as an in-house artist designing displays and sculpting native animals. In particular he made insects and lizards. At this time his work generated high interest and culminated in a commission from the Minister of Conservation. Wayne Mowat from Radio New Zealand’s National Programme followed up with an interview.

In 2002 Jack moved to Wairoa where he worked and lived. At that time, the work produced was very eclectic, featuring a combination of native animals, fantasy and science fiction creatures.

Jack entered 3 pieces into the Hawkes Bay Review in 2004, winning the sculpture section. Curator Damian Skinner commenting on the “in-depth character of the works”.

Jack studies art in his spare time, and for the past four years has seen a change in his style to more serious works of a satyrical nature. He is influenced by the artists of the 1930’s, favourites being Max Beckman, Otto Dix and Max Earnst to name a few.

Jack is now based in Gisborne, from where he continues to create.

"The Adventures of Saracen Jack", Mr Straker's debut solo exhibition was recently held at PAULNACHE, East Coast's primary Contemporary Art Dealer. It ran from the 4th - 24th September 2009 and was exceptionally well recieved.

Jack's artworks continue to be available via PAULNACHE.