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. I think it can remind them of home.”

In addition to his work as a visual artist, Irvin is an accomplished musician. 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).