Creative artist Jake Thompson's career can be traced back to his high school years when his rather insightful mom suggested that he pursue a career styling hair. Although Thompson admits he was a bit perplexed at first, he started to consider the possibility. With an artistic vision, a creative outlook and lots of passion, Thompson seemed ideal for the role. He spent his early days working at a variety of salons, sharpening his vision and perfecting his craft. Education also played a pivotal role in his journey. Thompson enrolled in many classes offered by the industry greats such as Michael O'Rourke and Sam Brocato among other luminaries. The three-time NAHA nominee nabbed a win in 2011 in the Avant Garde category. A perfectionist, Thompson believes that every shoot, guest and experience gets him closer to his version of greatness!
Q. Why did your mom inspire you to pursue styling hair?
A. She saw that I was an artist and that college wasn't going to work for me. I also loved women and I always got along with them, so she suggested hairdressing. The rest is history.
Q. What key attributes have defined your career and why?
A. I'm a visionary artist and a perfectionist. Being a perfectionist has had its challenges, but in hairdressing I live in the moment and enjoy the voyage. I've learned to let go of the perfectionist persona and practice, practice, practice my craft until I know it will turn out close to perfect.
Q. What advice do you have for aspiring stylists?
A. Practice something until you can do it blindfolded. Every mentor I've had emphasized practice!
Q. What energizes you most while working on photo shoots?
A. The creative process-watching something come alive whether it's commercial, fashion, avant-garde or beauty. My newfound love is photography. I've been shooting my collections, as well as a few other well-respected artists. That's energizing in itself. Looking through the lens is an exhilarating experience!
Q. What inspires you?
A. Fashion, photography, nature, and fractal geometry. It all challenges my mind and I ask myself how I can turn it into the art I create.
Q. Which creative icons do you admire most and why?
A. Alexander McQueen. He didn't create for the norm, he created for himself. I really admire that because when I finally stopped entering NAHA to please the judges, I won!
Q. What valuable lessons have you learned?
A. Try to be humble. My most humbling experiences have allowed me the most growth.
Q. If you weren't using your creativity for hair, what would you do?
A. Photography. I'm a geek at heart. I love the equipment and post-production process. Or I'd be a DJ. I've got an amazing ear for great beats and I love playing for a crowd of house and dance music lovers! It's an experience that gives a real natural high!
Q. What's your personal mantra?
A. Share your knowledge with passion and unbridled enthusiasm.
Q. Which prestigious awards have you recently nabbed?
A. I just won a NAHA in the Avant Garde category in 2001. It was an out-of-body experience. I loved having my peers and mentors judge my work. I loved competing and the stress of creating a collection that could win!
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| Peluca Collection Photographer: Justin Grant; Hairstylist/Jake Thompson; Makeup Artist: Melinda Johnson |
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| Suffused Collection Photographer: Kevin Schidel and Jake Thompson; Hairstylist: Jake Thompson |
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| Chromatic Mum-e Collection Photographer: Mitch Meyer; Hairstylist/Jake Thompson; Makeup Artist: Nikki Deroast; Fashion Stylist: Michelle Boucher |
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