10 Questions with Courtney Gatewood

Courtney Gatewood is a dedicated wife, mother of three, and passionate artist residing in Tennessee. Hailing from northwest Tennessee, she has ventured beyond her roots but ultimately returned to her beloved state. As a non-traditional college student, she gained invaluable insights into the life of a working artist. Through various assignments, she discovered that her creations often reflect the struggles of her younger self, who faced discouragement in her artistic pursuits. Now, she is delving deeper into this connection. Courtney aims to shed light on her experiences growing up in a small town where financial hardships made it challenging to succeed unless one was already established in a particular field. Her family endured significant financial difficulties, leading some relatives to seek solace in drugs and crime. However, Courtney sought a different path; she married young, but that relationship did not flourish. After having three children, she realized the importance of safeguarding their future and made the difficult decision to leave. Through her educational journey, she found a renewed sense of purpose in the arts, along with small victories that fueled her determination to chase her dreams.

Courtney Gatewood identifies as a painter and drawer specializing in figurative art. Reflecting on her artistic journey, she feels a strong motivation to develop a collection that instils hope, especially for young women who often find themselves without the necessary support—be it financial help or just the encouragement to chase their dreams. Her artwork embodies the anxiety experienced by women in a society that often undermines their ambitions, frequently stating, "It will never happen." She aims to honor women and the incredible strength they demonstrate by being true to themselves.

@courtneyartwork

INTERVIEW

What first drew you to art, and how has your creative journey evolved over time?

I recall my visit to the Art Institute of Chicago, where I stood before some of the most iconic artworks. The experience was profoundly moving, evoking memories of the joy I felt while drawing as a young girl. As a non-traditional student, I pursued my passion for learning to explore the essence of art, during which I developed and refined my distinctive style. I found that figurative art became my means of conveying my personal story.

How has your personal story influenced your artistic voice?

Recognizing the essence of art and the close-knit yet vibrant community it fosters, I perceive art as a means of forging connections. For a significant period, I experienced profound loneliness and a sense of being misunderstood. However, through my artistic endeavours, I can express my identity and engage with others, cultivating a shared understanding that resonates with many.

What does figurative art allow you to express that other forms might not?

For me, figurative art serves as a medium to foster human connections. I position figures in a manner that resonates with others. My focus has been exclusively on female figures; I have not incorporated male figures into my work. This choice stems from my desire to connect with women who aspire to chase their dreams but may lack the necessary encouragement. I intend to highlight the strength of women, not just in artistic pursuits but across all career paths. Through my art, I aim to provide support and showcase the empowerment of women.

How do you hope your work resonates with young women who face similar struggles?

I share my story to demonstrate that even the most challenging experiences can lead to positive outcomes through perseverance and commitment. Achieving your goals is possible with faith, but it requires effort and dedication. Change does not occur by chance.

What role does art play in processing emotions and life experiences for you?

Occasionally, I find myself drawing inspiration from my ideas, memories, or dreams, using them as a foundation for my creations. Initially, I may not grasp the full significance of these concepts until I have fully explored and developed them. Even upon completing a piece, the understanding may still elude me. I often take time to reflect on my creations, discovering new insights about myself in the process. This journey has taught me a great deal, and I will continue to express myself through my work to foster connections with others.

How do you balance the personal and universal aspects of storytelling in your work?

My personal journey is not one I navigate in isolation. I recognize that, as human beings, we all carry our own challenges. By sharing my story and the commitment I have invested in my passion, I aim to illustrate the essence of hard work. I hope to motivate others to chase their own dreams and build the lives they desire.

What challenges have you faced as an artist, and how have you overcome them?

I have encountered numerous obstacles, including hostility from colleagues, a lack of understanding from my distant family regarding my career choices, disappointment from not being accepted into a show I eagerly anticipated, and feelings of disapproval. Additionally, I have struggled to connect with others as I had hoped. Financial difficulties and the sensation of needing to be in multiple places simultaneously have also posed significant challenges. Nevertheless, I persist, holding onto the belief that things will eventually stabilize. It is the small moments of hope that motivate me to continue moving forward.

How do you approach developing a new body of work?

As I conclude a chapter in my artistic journey, I have realized that when certain memories resurface repeatedly, it signals a moment for introspection and creativity. I am currently in the process of developing a new collection of work inspired by my past experiences and dreams. This reflection on my history reveals the challenges of my upbringing and the lack of support in chasing my aspirations. However, I was determined to carve my own path, as I did not wish to become a stagnant and unrefined version of my family members.

What has been the most rewarding part of sharing your art with others?

The most fulfilling aspect for me is when I share my work with others, and they grasp it without needing any explanation.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists who feel discouraged from pursuing their dreams?

I encourage fellow aspiring artists to persevere in their pursuits. It's important to maintain a day job to cover your expenses while cultivating a consistent creative practice. Submit your work to as many opportunities as possible, and if you face rejection, take the time to analyze the feedback and make improvements for your next attempt.

Artist’s Talk

Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.

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