JK has been creating images since childhood. Born on Catalina Island, California in 1975, the artist began painting watercolors at a very early age. He studied fine art at San Clemente High School and then travelled to the high desert to gain a Bachelors of Art degree from The University of Arizona in 1998. Shortly after college, JK walked through the museums of Europe for three months to study the works of the Renaissance masters.His love of the Pacific Ocean brought him back to Southern California to begin his professional career.

While apprenticing for a muralist in Newport Beach, JK continued to take specialized painting courses at Laguna College of Art and Design. Around this time the artist began selling oil paintings through local galleries and restaurants.

"What moves those of genius, what inspires their work is not new ideas, but their obsession with the idea that what has already been said is still not enough"

Eugene Delacroix, greatest French romantic painter 1798 – 1863

In 2002, JK established a commercial studio on El Camino Real in San Clemente, California. This spacious art studio and gallery provided complete artistic consulting for fine art, decorative painting and design.  By April 2004, he established Gallery 104 and continued to offer artistic services.  Gallery 104 showcased the artwork of JK and also represented other local artists. The gallery hosted more than 100 art shows and sold a wide variety of paintings, sculptures and photography.

The fine art of JK has gained popularity with collectors and garnered appreciation by local media. During the last few years, JK fine art has appeared and sold throughout the international community, including Panama, Costa Rica, Mexico and in several European countries. From murals in Kauai to exhibits in Panama, JK's artistic design and creative imagery has continued.  In 2007, the artist's "Pier Barrel" was featured on the nationally televised Fuel TV. in part with a Surfrider Foundation art show at Ocean Avenue Brewery in Laguna Beach. JK has also had two recent articles about his paintings in the Orange County Register. The diversity of this artist is evident in his portfolio. Artwork has been created on ceilings, walls, garage doors, surfboards, wood carvings, musical instruments, illustrations and more.

Ongoing exhibitions and Gallery shows:

The Happening Gallery, Marina Del Rey, www.TheHappeningGallery.com

BeachFire Restaurant, San Clemente & Ladera Ranch  www.Beachfire.com

Cafe Del Sol, San Clemente

Rocco's Restaurant, San Clemente

The Mint Gallery, Dana Point www.bythemint.com

Past Exhibitions and Gallery Shows:

Art and Design Gallery, San Clemente

Gallery 104, San Clemente

9th & E Gallery, San Diego

McMenimen Gallery, San Clemente

Cafe Sol, Newport Beach

Ocean Avenue Brewery, Laguna Beach