Jake Messing reconstructs everyday scenes into complex visual metaphors that operate as catalysts for questions, discussions and debate. His integrative approach incorporates painting and illustration and is infused with emotion through the use of layers and textures. A Northern California native, Messing moved to New York, New York, in 2002, where he worked as a freelance illustrator before designing and creating original artwork and window displays for the city’s luxury retail market. From 2012 to 2014, he managed the art department for global creative visual merchandising at Tiffany & Co. In 2010, Messing’s work was honored by the London International Creative Competition. Since graduating from Parsons School of Design in 2006, Messing has been in residence at Camac Centre d'Art, France, and the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, Canada. He currently teaches painting and design at New York University.