We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Eric Gibbons a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Eric, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

When I was 5 or 6 years old, both my parents and teachers were impressed with my drawings. I would fill an entire pages with minute details of scenes of war and football-two things I am no longer interested in. I was encouraged by this and never looked back.

Eric, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a visual artist, specifically a painter working in oils.

I set up possibilities in which to find art. To see art emerge from the muck is a very exciting feeling, one that connects me to my deepest self.

This happens in the most visceral, if ego driven, way when I paint; but it happens IRL2

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

In the United States, a full reversal of the current administration’s slashing of funding for the arts is in order. Unfortunately it all comes down to money. Ask any artist, gallery, or even large institution; we are all panhandling now because Art is deemed less important than bombs and tax cuts to the very wealthy. However, art is an endeavor of the spirit and will never die if we keep making it.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is always and very consciously being in pursuit of authenticity.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @ericgibbonsart
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eric.gibbons.96
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0z8kQeHZyIQOYzCLG_oLUg