Printmaker and alum, Jacob Crook '09 has found success since his time at Mizzou in the Visual Studies program. Crook currently teaches in the art department at Mississippi State University. His artwork is focused on the mezzotint process, a labor-intensive printmaking technique with roots in the 17th century. Crook is one of Mississippi Arts Commissions’ recently announced Artist Fellowship grant recipients and has had several solo exhibitions including "Prints by Jacob Crook" at the Starkville Greater Development Partnership in 2023 and "Umbrae" at The In Art Gallery in 2022.

Crook gives credit to his time at MU for his introduction to mezzotint engraving, of which he has since become a leading practitioner of this little-known printmaking process.

"My art degree and specifically printmaking knowledge imparted by Chris Danigellis (associate professor at Mizzou) have been invaluable to me. Art has always been a passion of mine. During some down time in class I asked Chris if he would look at a drawing I was working on for another class and he immediately remarked 'We need to get you making a mezzotint.'

It has been 15 years since that interaction and over the last decade and a half I have been very fortunate to receive a fair bit of recognition in my field for my efforts over the years. I am forever grateful for Chris introducing me this process and lighting that fire of inspiration."