“Jon’s talent is obvious in the work he does. I shared multiple images with him so he could choose what would best suit what he planned to draw. He kept me constantly updated on the progress he was making. My husband and I could not be more pleased with the final product! He created an heirloom which will be passed down through our family capturing our grandchildren in their youth.”
— Karen Bell IT Specialist for Lynchburg City Schools
“The portrait Jon created of our three children is like a time machine. Not only did he capture our children’s likenesses in exquisite detail, he captured their spirits as if he’s known them all their lives. Looking at it brings back each moment in full and it’s impossible to look at it without putting my hand on my heart and being filled with love.”
— Alice Austin
“I wanted to drop you a note Jon to let you know how absolutely delighted we are with the series of portraits that you did of our grandchild. We are amazed by your talent! You’ve captured the very essence of our Caroline! Not only did you precisely note her expressions and eyes, you somehow
were able to pull out her personality!
The entire process of working with you was effortless. The layout of the images, your
precision and attention to detail and your
willingness to share photographic updates of your progress are to be admired.
The finished product is now a family heirloom!
Thank you so much for working with us. We cannot be happier with what you have created! I wish you much happiness and success in the future.”
Sincerely, Nancy Anderson
“The way Jon captured our daughter in his beautiful portraits was incredible. His work perfectly showcases her personality and likeness. We will treasure this beautiful keepsake of such a special time in our lives for years to come. We are so grateful to Jon for this priceless gift!” Caitlin and Matt Walsh
— Nancy Anderson & Caitlin and Matt Walsh
“I just received the most wonderful gift of my grandson’s beautiful eyes and smile captured in time. Others may view this beautiful portrait of a beautiful little boy, whose smile goes on forever, and think how wonderful. But what they don’t see is his beautiful soul that is perfectly captured in the portrait ’s eyes! Those eyes!!! Thank you, Jon, from the bottom of my heart! It’s perfect!”
— Leslie DePalo
From The Roanoke Rambler, 12/22/21:
Written by Aaron Horst

“Jon Roark reverently constructs what appear to be snapshots in a pair of egg tempera pieces (Lucky Store, 2017 and Annunciations, 2019). Roark creates two very different scenes— one showing the exterior of a convenience store, the other figures in an art museum standing before Botticelli’s Cestello Annunciation from 1489 — and then deftly interweaves them. The aluminum frame doors of the store mimic the open shutters of Roark’s recreated Botticelli painting,
while the loose grouping of figures in each piece evoke
private moments within proximity.”