Born in Oklahoma, Jack Roberts attended the American Academy of Art in Chicago and studied in New York under the tutelage of renowned artist and teacher Harvey Dunn.  Following Dunn’s advice to seek “the essential spirit” of painting, Jack moved to Colorado in 1947, seeking inspiration for his work.  In western Colorado his jobs as a railroad bridge gang worker and ranch ditch rider influenced his early paintings. 

In 1969, as his reputation grew and his artistic style evolved, Jack built his cabin/studio south of Redstone.  There, for thirty years, he created an average of forty paintings a year—exuberant, colorful portrayals ranging from cowboys and Indians to newspaper editors and historical expeditions. While capturing the “spirit” of his characters, he also approached each subject with attention to detail and historical accuracy.   His interest in realism and everyday subjects established his reputation as an American regionalist painter.  He was both artist and historian.