Jacques P. Jackson (b.1974)
At The Beach (2020)
Medium: Mosaic (glass, stone on wood)
Dimensions: 37” x 53” overall; individual pieces range from approximately 7” to 22” (beach ball commissioned by Summa Health)
Location: Dr. Gary B. and Pamela S. Williams Tower, Akron Campus, Sixth Floor, Blue Neighborhood, Outside Staff Lounge H6-313
About the Artwork
Vibrant and full of movement, At The Beach invites viewers into a world of play, energy, and connection. Through dynamic gestures and bold color, Jacques P. Jackson captures the essence of joyful interaction. The seven figures—deliberately arranged in groups suggestive of teams—move together in a rhythm that echoes the excitement of a seaside game. The focal point, a large beach ball, ties the composition together, while the largest figure, an undulating mermaid, anchors the scene at its center.
Jackson’s approach to representation is rooted in the power of body language. By omitting hands, feet, and facial details, he emphasizes movement rather than individuality, allowing viewers to see themselves in the universal gestures of play. This echoes artistic traditions dating back to ancient Greece, where sculptors prioritized capturing the grace and vitality of the human form.
Mosaic as an artistic medium dates back even further than classical sculpture. Ancient artisans used pebbles and hand-cut stones to create intricate floor designs, which later evolved into elaborate glass mosaics adorning walls and ceilings. Glass, prized for its ability to catch and reflect light, brought vibrancy to darkened interiors lit only by flickering flames. Jackson continues this tradition by integrating shimmering mirrored tesserae (small mosaic pieces) into his work. The mermaid’s fish-like scales, for example, are formed from triangular glass tesserae, while plaid fabric embedded beneath the glass adds texture and depth, evoking the patterns of beachwear. The interplay of light and color enhances the sense of movement, making the figures appear as if they could spring into action at any moment.
About the Artist
A Cleveland native, Jacques P. Jackson studied art and graphic design at the Atlanta Art Institute before returning to his hometown to establish himself in the arts community. While he considers himself a woodworker at heart, he seamlessly integrates mosaic, sculpture, and mixed media into his practice. His Body-Body collection, from which At The Beach emerges, celebrates human diversity, and individuality. Each figure Jackson creates comes with its own imagined story—something he hopes viewers will engage with as they interpret the relationships and narratives within his work.
Jackson’s work can be found at SoulHouse Décor, where he explores themes of identity and culture through mosaic, painting, and mixed media. His portfolio includes mosaics featuring inspirational texts, symbolic jewelry, and amulets incorporating ancient and contemporary materials from Egypt and the Near East. His art has been exhibited at the Artists Archives of the Western Reserve, the Worthington Yards Project, and other venues across Northeast Ohio. A recent interview with RampArts provides additional insight into his creative process and inspirations.
Explore More
For those interested in experiencing more of Jacques P. Jackson’s work, online platforms such as SoulHouse Décor showcase his diverse artistic output. His work continues to evolve, bridging historical traditions with contemporary themes that celebrate movement, identity, and shared human experience.