The Inspiring Life & Art of John Fletcher Strickland

John Fletcher Strickland (JFS), born on February 4th, 1941, in Indianapolis, IN, and passed away on December 15th, 2023, left an enduring legacy in both the art and music worlds. His paintings are celebrated globally, with exhibitions in Edinburgh, London, Seattle, San Francisco, Houston, Indianapolis, Cambridge, New York, Barbaste, and Corpus Christi. American Art Resources commissioned three of his works for display at Community Hospital North in Indianapolis.

JFS spent his life in Indiana, graduating from Broad Ripple High School in 1959, Wabash College in 1963, and earning a master’s degree from Goddard College. Known for his brilliance, kindness, and inspiration, JFS excelled in art, literature, and music.

As a professional jazz musician, JFS was a personal friend of David Baker, an Indy native who emerged from the club scene along Indiana Avenue, like Wes Montgomery, Freddie Hubbard, and J.J. Johnson. Baker founded the jazz studies program at Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music. JFS and Baker shared a close friendship, with JFS taking private cello lessons from Baker.

JFS did not enjoy growing old, as it interfered with his passions for painting, writing, enjoying a nip of Tito's, and a secret drag on a cigarette. Despite this, he continued to engage in these activities and always made time for people, as they did for him. His presence is deeply missed by his family and friends.

View his works HERE