Celebrating Jacob Proffitt: A Rising Star in Art and Education
Meet Jacob Proffitt, a gifted artist and future educator at King University, whose journey has been nothing short of inspiring. With his heart set on a future that blends his love for both mathematics and the arts, Jacob is a remarkable example of how passion, dedication, and a little bit of serendipity can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.
Graduating in 2025 with a major in Mathematics (Secondary Education Track) and a minor in Music, Jacob has already made waves in the art world. His recent achievement-the Exceptional Still Life or Floral Award at the 97th Annual Artist Professional League Grand National Exhibition-is a testament to his growing talent. His award-winning 8x8 oil painting titled “Southern Reverie No. 1” features a delicate hydrangea resting on a doily, surrounded by scattered flower petals and butterflies. For Jacob, this piece was more than just a painting-it was a nostalgic tribute to his southern roots. “The doily was actually made by my great aunt, and the hydrangea came from my mother’s bush that she’s had for as long as I can remember,” Jacob shared. “I wanted it to feel dreamy but also nostalgic, like something that reminds me of growing up.”
The feeling of seeing his work displayed at the historic Salmagundi Club in Manhattan was equally surreal for Jacob. “It really didn’t feel real! My painting is small, and I didn’t think it would really get noticed that much. To have it go all the way to New York was surreal! Some of the most talented artists apply to that show, so I was honored to have been included.”
Jacob’s path as an artist has been marked by pivotal moments and growth. One of the most defining moments was his first solo exhibition last December at the Johnson County Center for the Arts. “During the process of putting the show together, I think I finally settled into my style as an artist,” he said. “I learned a lot about what kind of art I enjoy making, and what kind of style I lean towards.” These moments of self-discovery, combined with the influence of some incredible mentors, have helped shape his artistic journey.
One of those mentors has been Cristy Dunn, the Executive Director of the Johnson County Center for the Arts. “Cristy has been my mentor since I was 16. I’ve had the pleasure of working with her, among many other exceptional artists. She’s had a huge impact on my artistic journey,” Jacob explained. His inspiration doesn’t stop there. He also looks to artists like Ben Bauer, Edward Rice, Caravaggio, and Vermeer to fuel his creative process.
Jacob’s time at King University has been equally influential in his development as both an artist and an educator. “I’ve been introduced to so many different areas of culture and learning. All my professors have inspired me to keep learning and growing as an artist and educator. The most important thing that I’ve learned, however, is to be open to new opportunities,” Jacob reflected.
When asked about the mentor who had the greatest impact on him at King, there was no hesitation in his answer: Mrs. Jane Morison, his piano professor. “Hands down, Mrs. Jane Morison challenged and inspired me the most! She’s such a patron for the arts and encouraged me to push my skills in both piano and art. We’ve spent so much time just talking about art and music we enjoy,” Jacob shared with admiration. “She actually drove an hour to see my exhibition! She’s a world-class professor!”
The community at King University has also been an integral part of Jacob’s journey. He credits the faculty and staff at King for their unwavering support. “I truly believe that King has incredible staff and faculty! All my professors that I got to spend a good bit of time with and get to know were so supportive of my ambitions,” he said. “Sometimes it was as simple as being flexible with my schedule when I was going to have my exhibition or travel to New York.”
"I truly believe that King has incredible staff and faculty! All my professors that I got to spend a good bit of time with and get to know were so supportive of my ambitions. Sometimes it was as simple as being flexible with my schedule when I was going to have my exhibition or travel to New York"
Jacob Proffitt, 2025
As an aspiring educator, Jacob has clear goals for his future students. “I hope and pray that my students learn that creativity is such a valuable skill in any environment, challenge, or career,” he explained. “I want them to feel comfortable sharing their wild ideas and to think outside the box.”
Looking ahead, Jacob is keeping an open mind about his next steps. “Honestly, I’m just going where the wind takes me. That’s what I’ve been telling everyone lately. I’m not usually the kind of person that does that sort of thing, but I want to be open to God’s plan for me. It’s been working for me lately. I mean, it took me to New York!” Jacob’s approach to life and art is both refreshing and inspiring.
To young artists hoping to follow in his footsteps, Jacob offers this advice: “Find a community of artists. Volunteer at an art center or join an artist’s club. Being involved with the Johnson County Center for the Arts introduced me to so many opportunities that I would have never discovered on my own.”
Jacob Proffitt’s story is just beginning, but with his incredible talent, unwavering dedication, and the support of his mentors and community, there’s no telling how far he’ll go. Congratulations, Jacob, on all your success so far! The future looks incredibly bright for this talented artist and educator!
Read more about Jacob’s feature in the A! Magazine for the Arts here: https://www.aamearts.org/magazine/article/jacob-proffitt-earns-national-honors/202510281528214773