LEFT: Jake Stoumbos, “Stoomby,” stands out in the herd of college students that walk campus. Known for his outgoing and creative lifestyle, Stoomby aims to put smiles on people’s faces.
RIGHT: Utilizing his creativity through art, he landed himself a spot in the Western Washington University design major. His cluttered room is a portrayal of his inspirations and resonations.
LEFT: Happy-go-lucky describes Stoomby to a T; often found smiling or making others smile. What’s around the corner? Who knows? “Why stress the future and live unhappy in the present?” said Stoomby.
RIGHT: Similar to that of a diary, he can often be seen scribbling in a book. The books are used to relive moments along the adventurous storyline of which is Stoomby’s life.
Some pages are filled with words, others are filled with art. The books are an outlet for his mind to wonder and release.
LEFT: Often on the stoop of his friends Venn Caspian, Jack Aldrich and Eric Clementine’s house on Ellis St., Stoomby can be found relaxing or playing music.
RIGHT: Art is portrayed in many ways. Every artist has a different opinion of what is, and what isn’t art. “I see everything as art, whether it’s cutting someone’s hair or painting,” said Stoomby.
LEFT: However, when he is on the move his skateboard is the preferred method of transportation. With his destinations moderately nearby, pushing from A to B isn’t too difficult.
RIGHT: Traveling downtown Bellingham has landed Stoomby some recognition. Some of his work can be seen in many different stores on display and even for sale. Most recently landing an art feature in the grand opening of Café Bouzingo.
LEFT: Stoomby encourages people to try new things, look at life differently and most of all, break routine. “Whenever things seem routine and life starts to get borin’, just pretend you’ve never been and act like it’s all foreign,” said Stoomby accompanying his art in the feature.
RIGHT: When the pencils pens and paintbrushes are put away, entertainment is found in exploration and physical activity. He loves messing around with his kendama because it keeps the mind busy and demonstrates precision all while having fun.
The kendama is one of the many commonplace items found in the backpack of Stoomby that is never left behind. His book for documentation, wallet, cellphone, water bottle, multitude of pens and brushes, sunglasses, a razor blade, deodorant to smell good and piece from his favorite shirt form the basic anatomy of the backpack. Can’t forget the skateboard.
At the end of the day some reflection and relaxation is vital. If it’s a nice day you can almost expect that you will find Stoomby outside.
