You may know Jacob by his artistic name Shakey. A self-taught artist who navigated his way from the rough & tumble Kalgoorlie goldfields to a successful career as an artist with an unquenchable thirst for Australian history and the characters that make it so rich.

Rather than art schools, Jacob cut his artistic teeth on the wharf down in Kwinana where he became the most in-demand wharfie artist after decorating some workmates hard hats.

From there he began his career teaching children with disabilities to paint.
An endeavor close to his heart as Jacob himself learned how to paint despite an essential tremor that causes his hands to shake. Rather than let it slow him down, Jacob embraced it and let it inform his unique style. Thus, the nickname, Shakey.

Since his humble beginnings on the wharf, Jacob has gone on to pioneer live wedding.
paintings which he’s worked tirelessly on for the past few years.

He’s been commissioned by iconic WA institutions such as the Fremantle Dockers and has performed his craft in front of large crowds at balls & galas all over Australia. He’s also found the time to earn over 75,000 bucks for charities including Telethon along the way.

In 2013, Jacob along with his wife Ange and their two daughters will be documenting Aussie culture and history across Western Australia and beyond by following the outback events circuit. They plan on leaving a mural art trail behind them so stay tuned for many new works to come!

Collie Western Australia

Gallery Of Work