Who, not WHAT, is Jason ?

Jason “Jay” Flack grew up alongside his twin sister, Jessica, in a world that often seemed divided by invisible lines—socially, racially, and regionally. Together, they navigated both sides of those divides, gaining a unique perspective on the struggles and strengths that existed within their community. As a young adult, Jason faced profound hardship when he found himself without a home, struggling to find stability and direction. Before he could fully recover, tragedy struck again when Jessica suddenly passed away in her sleep. The devastating loss of his twin was followed by another painful blow as a close friend was sent to prison. Surrounded by grief, uncertainty, and the fear of simply existing without purpose, Jason turned back to a gift he had long neglected: his artistic talent. What began as a personal refuge soon became a lifeline, offering a way to process loss, rediscover hope, and ultimately create something that could uplift not only himself but also the community that had shaped him.

Though naturally introverted, Jason pushed himself beyond his comfort zone, transforming into a confident and outspoken advocate for both his work and the creative community he hoped to inspire. He learned to use his voice as boldly as he used his brush, sharing his story in an effort to draw attention not only to his art, but also to an art scene that seemed on the verge of disappearing altogether. Over time, Jason became a true triple threat—showcasing his artistic talent, speaking passionately about the power of creativity, and investing in the next generation through teaching and mentorship. His ultimate mission has always extended beyond personal success: to help art become part of the identity of his hometown, Johnson City, and to inspire a culture where creativity is embraced as a way of life by the artists and children who will follow in his footsteps.

It was not always easy for people to understand Jason's ambitions. Growing up, bold dreams were often met with skepticism, and in many circles it could even seem offensive to be too outgoing, too confident, or too ambitious—especially as an artist. Yet Jason refused to shrink his vision to fit the expectations of others. He openly speaks of wanting his work to stand alongside legendary artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring, not out of arrogance, but from a deep belief in the power of art to transform communities and leave a lasting mark on culture. He often says that one day “Flack Avenue” will stand as a symbol of the impact he has made through his art, advocacy, and service. While he does not merely hope for a legacy, he works with the conviction that it will be impossible to deny. At the same time, Jason remains grounded in the understanding that every accomplishment is only another step forward. There is still more work to create, more stories to tell, more young artists to inspire, and more opportunities to elevate the creative spirit of Johnson City and beyond.

3rd Grade Me, drawing (photo by K Hertzog, the Greatest)

Speaking at the SWVA Culture Center (Abingdon, VA; photo by Billie Wheeler)