Jack Medvedis a talented illustrator, environmental advocate and animal expert based in San Diego. Over the course of five years of friendship and collaboration, I had the privilege of mentoring Jack both in his studio practice, as well as in the expansion of his artistry to include painting murals.

Our first mural project together was painted on the side of a building at the summer camp he attends each year. It included illustrations of animals that live on the camp’s grounds- combining his love of nature with his growing interest in public art. I supported him through each stage of the mural process, including developing his ideas on paper, translating his sketches into a digital format, and scaling and transferring the final design onto the wall before painting it together.

After completing our first mural successfully, Jack was eager to continue mastering the mural making process. We went on to collaborate on several more projects, including a mural at the property where he rides horses, and another on the side of his families garage, which he used as an opportunity to encourage environmental awareness.

Outside of our time spent painting murals, one noteworthy project I helped to spearhead was a series of original endangered animals coloring books featuring Jack’s infamous illustrations as well as hand written facts about each animal. Jack went on to sell these coloring books, inspiring creativity and compassion for animals that need our protection.

Through my mentorship, Jack strengthened his confidence working at a larger scale while sharing his passion for animals and conservation with his community.

You can learn more about Jack and his inspiring work at https://jacksanimalfunfacts.com/shop/