Jake Lewis
Born in Texarkana and a graduate of Texas High School’s Class of 1998, Jake Lewis carries his roots with him in everything he creates. He attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas, earning degrees in philosophy and journalism while also traveling and studying abroad, experiences that broadened his perspective and shaped his creative voice.
Following college, Jake spent time in San Francisco, Costa Rica, Little Rock, and Austin, each place contributing to his path. It was in Austin that he discovered his passion for woodworking, transforming reclaimed wood and overlooked materials into meaningful works of art. What began as a creative outlet quickly became a calling.
After two years, he moved to Fayetteville, Arkansas, where he committed fully to his craft. Over the past 13 years, Jake has established himself as a respected artist and engaged member of the Northwest Arkansas creative community. He serves as an admin for the NWA Makers Club, helping create opportunities for local artists and makers to connect and share their work. He is also entering his second season at the Fayetteville Farmers Market, where his business, Woodworx Workshop, continues to grow. Beyond his work, Jake enjoys being part of the local music and arts scene and supporting fellow creatives throughout the region.
While his journey has taken him to many places, Texarkana will always be home. Today, in Fayetteville, he has built a life that reflects both where he started and how far he has come, grounded in creativity, community, and purpose.
What was the teen hangout when you lived here?
Honestly, when I was a younger teen, my friends and I spent a lot of time hanging out at Central Mall. It was close enough for us to walk to. We’d take lap after lap, checking out Gadzooks, playing games in Silverball Arcade, and eating pizza at Rigatoni’s. I guess we were mall rats.
How do you describe Texarkana to your friends?
It’s always interesting explaining to people who aren’t familiar that there are two cities, Texarkana, Texas and Texarkana, Arkansas, and how you can stand with one foot in each state in front of the downtown post office. Two mayors, two city councils, two of everything.
Who is someone from Texarkana who impacted your life?
My middle school principal, George Moore, is a great man. He treated every student the same and had several memorable phrases. I went to Pine Street Middle School, and it didn’t have the best reputation over the years. It was even referred to by some as “Crime Street,” but Mr. Moore flipped that and built us up as “Pride Street.”
P.R.I.D.E.: Personal Responsibility in Daily Effort. I’ll never forget that.
What do you miss about Texarkana?
I miss growing up in general. It was a much different time. Texarkana was a really good place to spend my formative years. It was big enough, but not too big. I always felt safe. It just had a really good vibe overall.
What words do you live by?
Hmm… I’m a big fan of (P&TY) Please and Thank You, and (GGBB) Grant Grace, Break Bread. These are good reminders of how people should treat and speak to others.
Anything we haven’t asked about that you would like to share?
There are two events that bring me back to Texarkana every year: Twice as Fine Texarkana Wine Festival in May and the TRAHC Holiday Arts Market in December. Both events are very well organized, and the community really comes out to support them. As a vendor at both, it is always great to see the familiar faces of friends, family, and returning clients.
What is your nickname for Texarkana?
Most of my friends referred to Texarkana as TK when we were growing up.
Were you a Hawk, Leopard, Razorback, or Tiger?
I went to Texas High School, so a Tiger.
I was active in student government. I was Junior Class President and was also active in student council. I remember our Texas High vs. Arkansas High game week our senior year. We had the bacon fry in the parking lot on Summerhill Road, and I’m pretty sure that was one of the last years that Texas High was allowed to do the bonfire. I’ll always appreciate those memories—how it felt to be a part of a fanbase and how Texarkana was different from many other places, because we had a true crosstown rival. It was like playing for our entire state.
