Biography

London cartoonist Jak Burke has enjoyed a diverse career in the arts. In the 1990 Alan Weavis, a well-known charismatic British illustrator discovered her doodling on a tablecloth. Alan organized an exhibition of Jak’s cartoon work at the infamous Cafe Delancey in Camden, London. This debut show encouraged Jak to take a diploma in cartooning and media at The Morris School of Journalism, followed by a Bachelor’s degree at Middlesex University. During the 90’s Jak worked as a freelance contributor. Her clients included The Journal of Silly, DNA magazine, and Anchor Books, an imprint of Random House.

In 2000 Jak moved to NYC following the Street Art scene as it emerged there. She soon began to hold solo and group shows.

NYC Publication Credits & Shows

The Clinton Chronicle, Gonyc, Next Magazine, Gotham Magazine, Time Out Kids, Unity Magazine, The Improper Hamptonian Magazine, New Yorker Magazine, Punch, New York Times Magazine.

The Cooper Brook Gallery, East Village, NYC (solo show) Picture That Gallery, CT (group show) Times Square Gallery, NYC (group show) Ryan Chelsea Center, NYC (group show) The Digital Art Gallery, Soho, NYC (solo show) Education Hall, Coney Island, Brooklyn (solo show) The SketchBook Project, (group show) Critical Mass, Headquarters Gallery, NYC (group show)

Clippings

“A very talented young woman … her illustrative art has a special flair that is a unique mix of her British background and her American experiences. She will add to the growth of illustration in this country.” Terry Brown, Former Director, Society of Illustrators. 

“Her work is witty and elegant, evoking early US cartoon studio art, and her draftsmanship is of an extraordinarily high quality.” Allan Neuwirth, Cartoon Network 

“JAK is a female illustrator who makes a valuable contribution to the US cartoon market, which is traditionally male dominated. She is one of today’s top talents.” Lawrence Klein, Founder of Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art, NYC

“JAK’s characters ‘jump off the page’. She stands out from other story-boarders with her fresh and appealing style.’ Jessica Dunne, Executive VP merchandise & Development, Disney

‘A breath of fresh air’ Ham Khan, Editor ‘The Journal of Silly’ UK

‘JAK is a talented artist with a unique style in creating.’ Karl Templer, Creative Director, Interview Magazine

“JAK’s writing appeals to kids and adults alike.” Marie Morreale, Editor Scholastic Books

‘JAK is one of the best rising stars in the field of cartoon art.’ Karen Willis, MET