John has practiced in the fields of art history, architecture, visual art, curation, and education, and is currently the Manager of Collections and Exhibitions at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery in Fredericton, New Brunswick. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture (McGill University), a M.A. in Art History (Concordia University), and a PhD in History (University of New Brunswick). He has worked at award-winning architecture firms in Toronto, Atlanta, Saint John, and Fredericton, and has taught at the New Brunswick College of Craft and Design, the University of New Brunswick, and St. Thomas University. He has won awards for architectural and public art projects throughout Canada, and was a team member of Canada’s entry at the 2012 Venice Biennale in Architecture. A passionate advocate for the arts and for architectural conservancy, John has authored 18 books on architecture and visual culture.

John has volunteered on many regional boards dealing with heritage, health, technology, culture, and homeless housing. He was a personal tour guide to Prince (now King) Charles; been a cast member in four feature film documentaries on New Brunswick architecture and art; received the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Medal; played hockey against internationally-renowned architect Frank Gehry; and played varsity university lacrosse at the age of 43. Along with his wife Meghan, he is the father of Tait and Ana.

John was awarded the Order of New Brunswick in 2024.