J. Eric Cook
Everyday Artist – Printmaker, Painter, Maker
J. Eric Cook, also known as Ad Tumulum Arts, is a self-taught artist based in East Harlem, NYC. He is “Widely Recognized as the Eighth Hardest-Working Living Artists in New York City,” and his work spans several disciplines, including printmaking, painting, fabric art, wheat-pasting, and sticker slapping.
Eric’s studio name, Ad Tumulum Arts, means “Live Life, Give Love, Eat Good Food, and Enjoy Art!” He believes in working with patience, humility, and purpose, and these attributes can be found in everything he creates.
Eric’s work is characterized by its unique design, exciting subjects, and the use of various mediums. Among his creations are relief prints, watercolor and acrylic paintings, and fabric-based art such as scarves and tote bags. All of his paintings and prints are handmade and crafted, and the linocut prints are hand-pressed on Gus, his homemade 6-ton bottle jack printing press.
Eric has been showing and sharing his art in Washington Square Park since 2016, with tourists and locals alike. The Ad Tumulum Arts Road Show sets up between the Fountain & the Arch and showcases Cook’s work, including prints and paintings not available anywhere else – the Park Specials! Eric is also the creator of Mollie’s Mysterious Monotype Machine, an art-making machine spinning wonder at over 300mph!
To Eric, it’s never easy, but it’s always good. He enjoys telling stories and creating new life out of ideas, and he invites you to come by Washington Square Park to see his work and support an independent artist.
Get in touch
I am always available for side collaborations and talks worldwide. If you want to chat or order a commission, please don’t hesitate reaching out.