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.
Playing UNO stacks and eating chocolate cupcakes Mixed medium 11x 14 300.00 Chad Cortez Everett
My childhood experiences in Philadelphia deeply influenced my art. One of my most cherished memories was playing UNO with friends and family during the hot summer months. UNO quickly became a unifying activity in our neighborhood, bringing everyone together for lively tournaments and friendly competition.
Originally introduced in the 1980s, UNO provided a welcome relief from the humid Philadelphia summers. We often gathered on the steps of my house, where we created our own variations of the game to keep things exciting. For example, forgetting to call "UNO" resulted in drawing two cards, adding suspense and strategy to our matches.
Our games sometimes became intense, sparking passionate debates and spontaneous rule adjustments. Experimenting with stacking cards of the same number in different colors added a dimension to the game's dynamics. Amidst our spirited gameplay, we shared chocolate cupcakes and cherished these moments that strengthened our community bonds.
Pac Man and a slice of the American pie Mixed medium 11 x8 300.00 Chad Cortez Everett
My work draws inspiration from the iconic symbols and cultural artifacts of the 1980s. As a child, exposure to these diverse images profoundly shaped my worldview, both positively and negatively. Influenced by television portrayals, I became enamored with the allure of wealth and power, believing they epitomized success across all cultures. The media showcased individuals with high salaries, opulent homes, and luxurious cars, reinforcing the association between wealth, power, and influence. In my artwork, the American pie symbolizes the pervasive concept of the American dream, where everyone strives to get their own slice, often at any cost. This pursuit leads to sacrifices and moral compromises as people compete to keep up with societal expectations and their neighbors. Themes of deceit, theft, cheating, and even violence emerge as individuals vie for wealth and power, reflecting my childhood belief that these attributes equated to achievement.
Similarly, Pac-Man serves as a poignant metaphor of American culture, depicting our constant pursuit to stay ahead in the game of wealth and power. The game's ghost monsters represent formidable societal challenges, such as financial disparity, racism, educational barriers, and mental health struggles. Losing the game forces one to start anew, symbolizing the daunting prospect of rebuilding from scratch.
Fake gold chains, girl watching, and eating Cinnabons at the Gallery Mall Mixed medium 11x14 300.00 Chad Cortez Everett
Description As an artist, I draw inspiration from my personal journey, documenting experiences from childhood to adulthood. My works, including "Fake Gold Chains," "Girl Watching," and "Eating Cinnabon at the Gallery Mall," reflect recent memories and nostalgic moments. My connection to the original Gallery Mall in Center City Philadelphia dates back to my days at Overbrook High School and Temple University.
In the 80s and 90s, oversized gold chains symbolized wealth and attracted attention. Weekends often found my friends and me at the Gallery Mall, attempting to charm girls from across the city. While my friends congregated in the food court, indulging in Cinnabon and people-watching, I encountered vendors selling counterfeit gold chains at tempting prices. These chains, thought to enhance allure, often led to skin rashes—a sobering reminder that materialism doesn't define one's worth.
Reflecting on these memories, I understand that true fulfillment transcends material possessions. My journey has taught me valuable life lessons, challenging the notion that money and status alone command respect.
Looking for a Candy Girl, crane kick in the nuts, and a side order of French fries Mixed medium 11 x14 400.00 Chad Cortez Everett
Looking for a Candy Girl, Krane kick in the nuts, and a side order of French fries is a vibrant collage that captures the essence of my formative years, drawing inspiration from the iconic culture of the 1980s. This piece invites viewers to step into a world where music, movies, and memories intertwine, evoking a sense of longing and joy. The artwork is a tribute to the music of New Edition, whose hits like "Candy Girl" and "Popcorn Love" were the soundtrack to our teenage dreams. These songs fueled our youthful aspirations of finding love, a time when exchanging gifts and corny love letters was the norm in the neighborhood. A central element of the piece is the influence of The Karate Kid, a film that captivated me and sparked a lifelong fascination with martial arts. The iconic crane kick, attempted countless times in playful battles with friends, symbolizes our youthful attempts to emulate movie magic. The humor in its predictability adds a playful layer, questioning how a single move could secure victory for Daniel in the tournament. Interwoven with these themes is the memory of McDonald's on Woodland Avenue in Southwest Philadelphia. This local hangout, a backdrop to our social interactions, offered more than just cheeseburgers and fries. It was a meeting place, a site of connection where we gathered to share stories and laughter while watching the world pass by. Through this collage, I aim to capture the spirit of an era that shaped my identity and artistic vision. The vibrant colors and dynamic composition reflect the energy and optimism of the 80s, inviting viewers to reminisce about their own experiences and celebrate the shared cultural moments that continue to resonate.
Hip hop and the Twix connection, and Dark Vader is not the father Mixed medium 11x14 300.00 Chad Cortez Everett
Inspired by the culture of the eighties and nineties, my work reflects the soundtrack of my life during that era. As I enjoyed my Twix candy bars, I listened to 90's R&B, hip-hop, and rap music. This music was a powerful motivator and a source of pride, guiding me through both good and challenging times. Rap, in particular, served as the voice of the disenfranchised. Listening to Public Enemy opened my eyes to the struggles of African-Americans facing racism in urban and corporate America, while NWA highlighted the dangers faced by African-American males in the ghetto. In the eighties, I was an avid Star Wars fan, captivated by the saga and especially by the character of Darth Vader. His imposing presence, with a long black cape, black body armor, and deep bass voice, along with his telekinetic powers, made him the ultimate science fiction villain. My love for science fiction movies fueled my imagination, encouraging me to think outside the box and challenging my skills as an artist.
Hulk kicked the Liberty Bell and Freddy Kruger coming for you Mixed medium 14x17 500.00 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 300.00 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.
Strawberry Frosted Pop Tarts and stuck on the monkey bars Mixed Medium 14 x18 400.00 Chad Cortez Everett
Strawberry Frosted Pop Tarts and stuck on the monkey bars is a heartfelt exploration of the memories and experiences that shaped my early years growing up in Philadelphia. This collage is a tribute to the vibrant culture and personal history that has enriched my life and artistic journey. The artwork is inspired by my time in the Bartram Village Housing Project, where the simple joys of childhood left an indelible mark on my heart. Eating strawberry frosted Pop-Tarts and playing on the monkey bars with friends is woven into the fabric of this piece. These carefree moments, filled with laughter and camaraderie, capture the innocence and wonder of youth.
A playful yet poignant element of the collage is the memory of being stuck on the monkey bars, calling out for help. This experience, both humorous and relatable, symbolizes the challenges and triumphs of growing up, reminding us of the strength found in community and friendship.
Through this work, I celebrate the richness of my history and culture, acknowledging the experiences that have made my life more rewarding. The dynamic composition and nostalgic imagery invite viewers to say their own childhood memories and the ways they have shaped who they are today.
Love Bomb Mixed Medium 12 x14 300.00 Chad Cortez Everett
Love Bomb is a powerful mixed media piece born from my deep concern over the gun violence plaguing Philadelphia and many other cities across the United States. This artwork serves as both a personal expression and a public call to action, highlighting the urgent need for compassion and understanding in our communities. The inspiration for this piece comes from the heartbreaking reality of gun violence that I witness daily through the news and in my life. The streets have become war zones, where senseless violence claims the lives of young people over personal disputes. I felt the devastating impact, having lost students to these tragic circumstances and watching grieving families lay their children to rest. This artwork is my platform to voice these concerns and question the accessibility of firearms. It baffles me how easily young people can get guns while the process of getting a driver’s license is more stringent. The widespread availability of assault rifles, both in urban streets and rural areas, is particularly troubling. Such weapons should be confined to military use, yet they proliferate in our communities where no war should exist. Through the Love Bomb, I propose a simple yet profound solution: to drop a love bomb. If we prioritize love, respect, and empathy for one another, we can resolve conflicts without resorting to violence. By fostering a culture of conflict resolution, we can begin to heal and reconnect as a society. My art is a reminder that we have lost sight of our shared humanity and the empathy that binds us together.
Black Educator in a White Box Mixed Medium 11x14 300.00 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.
Saturday Morning Cartoons, Pancakes, and finding my hustle Mixed Medium 18x24 700.00 Chad Cortez Everett
Description: As a visual explorer, Saturday Morning Cartoons, Pancakes, and finding my hustle pay homage to my cherished weekend morning rituals as a child, in early 80s Philadelphia. The piece captures the essence of weekends filled with the simple joys of watching cartoons and savoring pancakes, offering a glimpse into a moment of carefree nostalgia.
My weeks were filled with the academic challenges of school, but Saturdays were a sanctuary of comfort and excitement. At the crack of dawn, I raced downstairs to watch my favorite cartoons, Where Are You Scooby-Doo?, The Smurfs, and Mr. T. The cartoons were a gateway to a world of adventure and imagination. They inspired me to grab my old spiral notebook and attempt to draw the characters.
In addition, the aroma of syrup and freshly made pancakes by my mother created a sensory symphony that intertwined with the vibrant colors and sounds of the cartoons. This was a time of shared moments, sitting together at breakfast, laughing, and enjoying the simple pleasure of being present.
After the cartoon programs ended, I embodied the spirit of a young entrepreneur. I earned money for toys and entertainment by cutting lawns and raking leaves, infusing the day with a sense of purpose and independence.
Pancakes and Cartoons invite viewers to step into a personal narrative, where the innocence of childhood rituals and creative expression come to life. It celebrates the beauty of ordinary moments and the enduring influence of these experiences on the tapestry of our lives.