Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacob Messa.
Jacob, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve been drawing ever since I can remember. My mother was an artist and I found that it came naturally to me as well. In my teen years, I was obsessed with graffiti art and spent most of my high school days sketching and painting. I really wanted to perfect my craft.
As a young adult, I slowed down on graffiti and received a tattoo apprenticeship. I tattooed in various shops for six years. It was my introduction to making a living with my artistic abilities. In my fifth year of tattooing, I met my wife. A year later, we would marry and have our first daughter.
At 25, I became a Christian and my whole world view changed. I stopped tattooing and went to The College of Biblical Studies. It was there I came to understand why I was given my artistic ability. I was made a creative to glorify God with my time and talents. Last year my wife and I decided to pursue my art full time and Marked By Jake was born. I’m a Christ follower, husband of 12 years and father of four amazing and talented kids. I love creating and strive for excellence in everything I do. My goal is to leave a legacy for the future generations.
Has it been a smooth road?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. I struggle a lot with balance and timing. Trying to make a living and pursue my passion has been difficult. Providing for a big family wears on you and leaves you with little time and energy to be creative. Understanding how to balance it all is a challenge in itself. Gigs come slow. I’ve always had to work hard to get where I’m going. I just keep on pushing forward. When you know you’re called to do something, you keep going. The biggest obstacle was getting laid off in 2018. The sense of security is pulled from you and your left wondering how you’re going to get through it all. It ended up being just what I needed to have more time to focus on refining my skills.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Marked By Jake is a small business. It’s coming up on its first year anniversary. I’m the only artist and I specialize in murals and graphics. I’m known for clean and consistent artwork. I’m most proud of the feedback I receive both from the client and those who interact with the art on a daily basis. What sets me apart from others is that I’m versatile and professional. Everything is done digitally first and I like using various mediums to complete a project. I use whatever I need to to make my art stand out. I hand paint, spray paint and airbrush just to name a few.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Yes, Houston and the surrounding cities are very much ripe for all types of artist and I would definitely recommend them coming to Houston.
Contact Info:
- Website: MarkedByJake.com
- Phone: 8328082780
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: Instagram.com/Marked_by_jake
- Facebook: Facebook.com/MarkedByJake/
Image Credit:
Photography: Benjamin Hester Instagram: Benjamin.i.hester
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