Bob Judalena

Artist Statement

I primarily focus on surrealism and portraiture in my work, focusing on themes of trauma and identity and also subverting the binary between repulsion and endearment. I am inspired by biology, evolution, and the incomplete narratives of both human and natural history, but sociopolitical topics of racism, homophobia, and colonization sometimes seep through my work as well, usually in a satirical, critical tone. Through mostly mixed media and acrylic paint, I like to devise characters and creatures that feel shocking to see at first glance but that also attempt to evoke a feeling of empathy or even adoration. Through these works I also like to reinforce the idea that all living things are striving to remove the obstacles that disconnect them from each other, but we are socially conditioned to fear each other and put up walls between and within ourselves.

Biography

Originally from Jacksonville, FL, I was raised in a pretty atypical variety of circumstances that fueled my creative identity as a queer and biracial person. Inspired by my father's artistic and musical ability, I obtained a BA in Studio Art from Florida State University in 2013, and began my career as a high school art teacher In Jacksonville the following year. After a 2 year break for graduate school, I obtained my MS in Art Education from FSU in 2020, relocating and returning to my career in Charlotte, NC for a tumultuous 2 years of teaching during the pandemic. Deciding it was time for another change of environment, I relocated to St. Petersburg to find my place in this reputed and vibrant arts community. I am currently teaching middle and high school art in Tampa. In between teaching, I have revisited my personal artistic career both as a visual artist and a musician, and am looking forward to growing creatively in what I expect will be my permanent home!

Exhibition History (CV)