John S. McKaughan Jr.

John S. McKaughan Jr. was born in Tahoka, Texas, in 1927. He moved to Lubbock, Texas where he graduated from Texas Tech University with a degree in Graphic Design, and a minor in Architecture. He also attended two years at Columbia University’s School of Painting and Sculpture. Starting in the 1950’s, John brought his expertise and keen eye to Braniff International Airways based in Dallas, Texas, where he worked as the Art Director for 27 years. There, he collaborated alongside Alexander Calder, Emilio Pucci, Alexander Girard, Roy Halston Frowick and other artists to create a commercial design experience that rivaled galleries and museums.

Due to the nature of his work, John travelled professionally as well as socially to the Latin American countries served by Braniff Airlines. He had continuing opportunity to contact and cultivate the knowledge and friendships of major artists from Peru, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Columbia, Chile, Ecuador, and Panama. During this time, he also became a major critic for and fervent traveler to the prestigious Bienal Internacional de Arte de São Paulo, Brazil’s heavy footprint in world art exhibitions. As a true patron of the arts, John spent his life collecting works and antiques that he felt breathed life into the creative world and the human experience.

John passed away on September 14th, 2023. This page is a dedication to his legacy, and an exploration of his vast collection.