Jon

Jon West Burris, born and raised in southwest Oklahoma, discovered his love of storytelling early in life. Growing up surrounded by the voices of elders who passed down tales of ghosts, frontier life, and family adventures, Jon developed a vivid imagination and a deep respect for the power of narrative. Solitude often served as fertile ground for his creativity, nurturing a lifelong passion for stories that balance sincerity with a touch of embellishment.

Jon’s path first led him into service. Over the course of more than a decade in the United States Air Force, he became a Staff Sergeant and Dedicated Crew Chief, stationed in Spain, England, and the U.S. His military career demanded precision, discipline, and leadership—qualities that continue to inform his creative work. The camaraderie of service life, paired with exposure to European cultures and landscapes, enriched his worldview and gave his storytelling an uncommon depth and authenticity.

Following his military service, Jon transitioned into leadership roles in the music industry and retail management, later returning to the aviation world at Randolph AFB, where he spent a decade maintaining trainer aircraft and mentoring new staff. These diverse careers sharpened his skills in teaching, communication, and collaboration, preparing him for a later chapter dedicated to art.

Now retired and living in San Antonio, Jon enjoys life as a grandfather, husband, and creative partner. Together with his wife Amanda, he co-founded FOLK Studio 451, a small independent studio focused on mythic, emotionally rich storytelling that bridges generations and cultures. Jon contributes a unique blend of insight, humor, and lived experience, helping craft works that fuse ancient themes of transformation and resilience with modern tools.

From the wide-open landscapes of Oklahoma to the bustling streets of Madrid, Jon’s life has been marked by constant transformation and exploration. Today, he channels those experiences into stories that honor truth, family, and the resilience of the human spirit.