Jordan Sook

Running unlocks a world of possibilities for contemporary artist Jordan Sook. Based in the west end of Toronto, he works out of his studio and the Toronto Media Arts Centre to create playful and evocative art. His work ranges from acrylic paintings to sculptures and installations, with a recent focus on large-scale public art.

Growing up playing basketball and rugby, Jordan’s curiosities in the arts also began early when his mom introduced him to artists like David Kibuuka as a child. The self-taught artist found parallels to sports when he began pursuing art full-time in his early twenties. The artworld is competitive. Taking disciplines learned in sports, Jordan strategizes with a team of people to successfully bring his visions to life. For Jordan, running in the morning grounds him and allows him to create ideas for his art that are always his own.

Jordan uses running as a means for solitude, an escape to free his mind and give space for possibilities of the future. Making his way through his west end neighbourhood and along the waterfront, Jordan throws on Toro Y Moi, Kanye West, and many other artists to get into stride. Whether it’s pounding the pavement or working on a piece of art, his routine to get up early, lock-in, and repeat tasks over and over again unleashes an endless imagination. Jordan swears "once you get in a rhythm, it can take you anywhere."