Off The Wall Magazine Q&A with John "Jack" Gable
4/1/2019
Maine: I have lived in Maine for 40 years. I am a realist painter, and the relationship of realist painters to the state, its topography, and its history of embracing some of America’s finest artists made my choice to be here an enthusiastic one.
Inspiration: As a transplanted designer from another discipline, my motivation has been to strive for high achievement as an artist, while maintaining a broad range of interests. I have an adventurous lifestyle, and a profession that allows me to have some control over how I spend my day.
Medium: Due to my professional training, I learned to use all types of media. My personal favorite is watercolor. I embrace the opportunity to take on commissions, which provide unique experiences and travel, and I gladly use any medium that the client requires when not doing my own work. With my personal work, certain subjects demand different approaches.
Artist Hero: I am primarily a student of realism, both contemporary and traditional. Andrew Wyeth, Neil Welliver, Edward Hopper, and even Richard Estes have had a Maine connection in the past. Living artists Linden Frederick, Ann Lofquist, and others have also inspired me.
Studio: Because I am both a muralist and an easel painter, I work in two locations. My mural studio is in Bath, where I have created murals for 25 years. It is large, measuring 25’ x 80’, and keeps me on my toes. My painting studio is located behind my home in Woolwich and is much easier to clean up!
Where in Maine: My wife, Bobbi, and I live in an eighteenth-century Greek Revival farmhouse overlooking Montsweag Bay. We have been here for over 25 years, and value our local friends and the pleasures that they provide us with.
Fun Fact: I have reputation among collectors of sporting art: I am known as the Dean of Rowing Painters.
Education: I am a Frankfort boy, and originally attended the University of Kentucky in Lexington. I went on to graduate with a degree in industrial design from the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, California.
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