Artist's Statement
The COVID-19 epidemic transformed my life, instilling in me a deep appreciation for every facet of existence. During quarantine, I came to recognize the brevity of life and the importance of cherishing family and friends. This period of introspection prompted me to contemplate my existence and how I could capture and preserve my memories through art.
"Tripping on my Memories" reflects both experiences and present insights. Each memory I explore through my art tells a story of my life, drawing from a rich tapestry of personal encounters and emotions. These experiences have provided fertile ground for my collage work, where I explore themes and narratives shaped by my journey.
As an artist, my perceptions of 80s, 90s, and early 20s culture influenced my work. These decades have not only shaped my artistic style but also informed my perspective as an individual. Through my art, I aim to evoke nostalgia, provoke thought, and capture the essence of personal and collective memory.
The COVID-19 epidemic transformed my life, instilling in me a deep appreciation for every facet of existence. During quarantine, I came to recognize the brevity of life and the importance of cherishing family and friends. This period of introspection prompted me to contemplate my existence and how I could capture and preserve my memories through art.
"Tripping on my Memories" reflects both experiences and present insights. Each memory I explore through my art tells a story of my life, drawing from a rich tapestry of personal encounters and emotions. These experiences have provided fertile ground for my collage work, where I explore themes and narratives shaped by my journey.
As an artist, my perceptions of 80s, 90s, and early 20s culture influenced my work. These decades have not only shaped my artistic style but also informed my perspective as an individual. Through my art, I aim to evoke nostalgia, provoke thought, and capture the essence of personal and collective memory.
Hulk kicked the Liberty Bell and Freddy Kruger coming for you
Mixed medium
14x17
Chad Cortez Everett
My art reflects my childhood memories growing up in Philadelphia during the vibrant 80s culture. One of my earliest recollections is watching the Incredible Hulk cartoon and TV show. The Hulk's dual nature fascinated me—the interplay between his heroic acts and destructive impulses. I often wondered if his immense strength could have caused the crack in the Liberty Bell. David Banner's iconic line, "You wouldn't like me when I'm angry," hinted at the transformative power into the unstoppable Hulk. The character of the Incredible Hulk serves as a poignant reflection of how unchecked emotions can lead to destructive tendencies.
The representation of the Liberty Bell in my art symbolizes the fragility of the United States government—imperfect and marked by physical flaws. Its notable crack serves as a metaphor for systemic issues within our society, including institutional racism and inequality.
Another profound memory from the 80s was watching the Nightmare on Elm Street movie series. The chilling character Freddy Krueger, who terrorized victims in their dreams, left an indelible mark. For days, I grappled with the fear that Freddy might invade my dreams, until I realized I didn't live on Elm Street in Southwest Philadelphia. Freddy Krueger epitomized fear and the consequences of uncontrolled desires. He exploited deep emotions and vulnerabilities, transforming them into horrifying nightmares—a stark reflection of societal anxieties embedded in American culture.
Mixed medium
14x17
Chad Cortez Everett
My art reflects my childhood memories growing up in Philadelphia during the vibrant 80s culture. One of my earliest recollections is watching the Incredible Hulk cartoon and TV show. The Hulk's dual nature fascinated me—the interplay between his heroic acts and destructive impulses. I often wondered if his immense strength could have caused the crack in the Liberty Bell. David Banner's iconic line, "You wouldn't like me when I'm angry," hinted at the transformative power into the unstoppable Hulk. The character of the Incredible Hulk serves as a poignant reflection of how unchecked emotions can lead to destructive tendencies.
The representation of the Liberty Bell in my art symbolizes the fragility of the United States government—imperfect and marked by physical flaws. Its notable crack serves as a metaphor for systemic issues within our society, including institutional racism and inequality.
Another profound memory from the 80s was watching the Nightmare on Elm Street movie series. The chilling character Freddy Krueger, who terrorized victims in their dreams, left an indelible mark. For days, I grappled with the fear that Freddy might invade my dreams, until I realized I didn't live on Elm Street in Southwest Philadelphia. Freddy Krueger epitomized fear and the consequences of uncontrolled desires. He exploited deep emotions and vulnerabilities, transforming them into horrifying nightmares—a stark reflection of societal anxieties embedded in American culture.
Beam me up Scotty, Trapped in the Jordan Universe
Mixed Medium
11 x8
Chad Cortez Everett
As both a child and adult, I have been profoundly inspired by the Star Trek franchise. The original Star Trek and The Next Generation captivated me, particularly through their rich science fiction elements. The show's imagery sparked my imagination and challenged me to think outside the box creatively. Each episode was not only entertaining but also mind-blowing, transporting me to distant galaxies.
In my imagination, I became part of the Enterprise crew, traveling to new planets and interacting with strange and wonderful creatures. As the captain of my own ship, I led my crew on adventures, saving countless worlds and exploring the unknown.
Mixed Medium
11 x8
Chad Cortez Everett
As both a child and adult, I have been profoundly inspired by the Star Trek franchise. The original Star Trek and The Next Generation captivated me, particularly through their rich science fiction elements. The show's imagery sparked my imagination and challenged me to think outside the box creatively. Each episode was not only entertaining but also mind-blowing, transporting me to distant galaxies.
In my imagination, I became part of the Enterprise crew, traveling to new planets and interacting with strange and wonderful creatures. As the captain of my own ship, I led my crew on adventures, saving countless worlds and exploring the unknown.
Black Educator in a White Box
Mixed Medium
11x14
Chad Cortez Everett
Description
Black Educator in a White Box is a poignant and introspective piece that captures my two-decade journey as an African American art teacher navigating the complexities of the educational system. This artwork serves as both a personal narrative and a broader commentary on the challenges faced by Black educators.
Over the years, my experiences have exposed me to the good, the bad, and the ugly within education. Despite my dedication, my perceptions have become tainted and jaded by the systemic issues that persist. African American educators are an endangered species, their numbers in schools often shockingly low. At some schools, I can count the number of African American teachers on one hand.
The piece highlights the plight of many outstanding Black educators who have left the profession because of burnout, oversized classrooms, and institutional racism. Conversations about race with peers often reveal a troubling denial of these issues, with colleagues viewing the world through rose-colored glasses. Speaking out about these problems risks being labeled as angry or militant, a stigma that silences many voices.
In response, I have learned to navigate the system by keeping my thoughts to myself, striving not to create enemies. While I may not change a broken educational system, I can affect my mindset by supporting teachers of color. This artwork reflects my commitment to fostering a supportive community and advocating for change from within.
Through Black Educator in a White Box, I aim to shed light on the hidden struggles and resilience of Black educators, inviting viewers to reflect on the systemic barriers that persist and the power of individual action to make a difference.
Mixed Medium
11x14
Chad Cortez Everett
Description
Black Educator in a White Box is a poignant and introspective piece that captures my two-decade journey as an African American art teacher navigating the complexities of the educational system. This artwork serves as both a personal narrative and a broader commentary on the challenges faced by Black educators.
Over the years, my experiences have exposed me to the good, the bad, and the ugly within education. Despite my dedication, my perceptions have become tainted and jaded by the systemic issues that persist. African American educators are an endangered species, their numbers in schools often shockingly low. At some schools, I can count the number of African American teachers on one hand.
The piece highlights the plight of many outstanding Black educators who have left the profession because of burnout, oversized classrooms, and institutional racism. Conversations about race with peers often reveal a troubling denial of these issues, with colleagues viewing the world through rose-colored glasses. Speaking out about these problems risks being labeled as angry or militant, a stigma that silences many voices.
In response, I have learned to navigate the system by keeping my thoughts to myself, striving not to create enemies. While I may not change a broken educational system, I can affect my mindset by supporting teachers of color. This artwork reflects my commitment to fostering a supportive community and advocating for change from within.
Through Black Educator in a White Box, I aim to shed light on the hidden struggles and resilience of Black educators, inviting viewers to reflect on the systemic barriers that persist and the power of individual action to make a difference.