04 Nov Stephenson Showcase: “Mountains & Autos” by Michael Jack
It’s easy to get swept up in the routine rhythms of everyday life. The lists, the schedules, the steady hum of the expected. For photographer Michael Jack, retirement offered an unexpected opportunity: a return to creativity and a renewed fascination with the world through the lens of a camera.
After a career in finance, Michael’s transition to fine art photography represented a shift in mindset. “My challenge was to move beyond my finance roots (just the facts) to be more creative,” he reflects. What began as a technical pursuit has evolved into a study of form, design, and emotion. His landscapes evoke a sense of vastness and wonder, while his automotive portraits celebrate precision, craftsmanship, and the dreams of the designers behind them.
Michael’s process is rooted in curiosity and lifelong learning. “I’ve hopefully moved from simple ‘record’ shots to something more artistic,” he shares. His growth is fueled by studying the work of other noted photographers, entering international competitions, and constantly refining his post-processing skills. He’s recently been recognized by the International Federation of Photographic Art, an honor that speaks to his dedication.
His latest showcase exhibit, Mountains and Autos, invites viewers into rugged landscapes and gleaming machines through the same contemplative eye.
This dual focus may seem unusual at first glance, as nature and machinery rarely share the same gallery wall. But for Michael, the connection is clear. “I’m a car nut who loves to travel to mountainous landscapes,” he explains, “Combining both brings together two passions, even if unrelated.” In each image, Michael captures not just what he sees, but what he feels. The grandeur of mountain peaks bathed in shifting light, and the sculptural elegance of automobiles that reflect human ingenuity and aspiration.
Mountains and Autos is a celebration of contrast, balance, and passion. You can visit this showcase exhibit in the Stephenson House Gallery from November 7-29, 2025. Join Michael for his free public reception on opening night, Friday, November 7, from 6-9 p.m.