Goatavious

Artist Statement

My life, in general, has felt like a constant progression of songs from a playlist, but the playlist was on shuffle. To be clear, it was on shuffle before the internet and digital downloading became mainstream. It has been more like a shuffle or playlist from a set of mix tapes, that invariably melted in the back window of my car and I had no way of knowing what song was coming next. I have, however, enjoyed being present and even though I'm terrible at it, danced the whole way through to each and every beat and melody: happy, sad, loving, painful, knowledge evoking, grief baring, comfort seeking, pick me up, etc.

I have always had a passion for art and the creative process. Creating with my hands as of late with wood, canvas, plaster and acrylic has become a creative outlet and place where I could think and reflect. In a world so filled with technology and screens, it provides me with an outlet to simply check out and work on my art and ultimately me.

Art is a cathartic type of therapist in my own life, devoid of any and all pre misconceptions. It is a time to let your mind wander and imagination soar. It provides you with an opportunity to be bold, a safe place to be vulnerable, a chance to be humbled, and in the face of anything, most importantly, be you.

Art for me is like life in that it teaches lessons of inclusivity instead of exclusivity. We as humans, artists, and observers all have the basic desire to be heard, be valued, be loved and be our true self without judgment.

I am humbly grateful for the opportunity to share my art if only for a brief moment of time.

Biography

So first and foremost, what the heck is Goatavious? It started as somewhat of a joke, as I was going through my own personal struggles, along this journey of this thing we call life. I joked that I would like to procure an emotional support goat named Goatavious, the likes of which would drop horns and lay a gentle reminder to those that had cast shade and untruths during opportune moments of struggle. Alas, I never obtained a goat, although I hear they now utilize them for yoga. Perhaps I should have obtained an emotional support yoga goat. I digress.

I was born in Winter Haven, Florida. I have had no formal training of any kind in art. I have works showcased in exactly zero, nil, nada studios. I finished 35 out of 32 people in a second grade spelling bee. I have multiple participation ribbons from various events. I would have run and won multiple triathlons, if not for the running, biking and swimming. I have won the lifetime human achievement award, TWICE. So I have an affinity for humor, I think it sometimes becomes a defense mechanism when I'm anxious. So I assume that I am somewhat apprehensive being put next to such talented formally trained artists, with accolades galore!

Exhibition History (CV)