Conversations with Christopher Hicks

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christopher Hicks.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My story begins in high school where my love of the arts was fostered.

Back then I knew I wanted to be a creative of some kind, and I also knew I wanted to teach. After undergrad and through grad school, I had a string of interesting jobs all involved with art education: retirement home art instructor, middle school art teacher, museum educator, director of admissions for a college of fine art, a professorship, and now high school.

I’ve worked the full gambit of ages and skill levels, and through that experience I found high school to be the most fulfilling for me. This age group is the most fun to teach because they are interested in learning, not opposed to wild and weird experimentation in art, and they humor my horrible art “dad” jokes/endless puns.

What more could someone ask for?!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road to this point in my career has not been the smoothest of rides, and I know without the support of my close friend circle, partner, and parents, I definitely would not have had the confidence to take risks and peruse my goals. I am most thankful for them!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My creative practice is very much like Florida summer weather- unpredictable.

I used to fight against it, but lately, I’ve discovered that going with the flow is much easier and more fruitful. When I am making work, I explore themes of home, mental health, identity, and spirituality. My inspiration is a direct response to my surrounding geography and assimilation of everyday moments. My imagery oscillates between representational and nonobjective – whatever language best fits what I’m thinking or feeling.

I have to work in a non-linear series format to feed my wandering mind and to allow different series to grow together. I give myself the freedom to experiment with media because I can take back my findings to the classroom studio to better serve my students! It’s no fun if you don’t make it fun!

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
There are three elements that I have discovered through good mentors, networking, and experience that have helped me be successful.

1. Cultivating and maintaining a supporting group of friends, family, and mentors who you trust.

2. Not being an island! It’s important to engage with your artistic community. It’s different for a lot of folks, but for me, it’s attending gallery and museum openings, applying to shows, and attending creative workshops.

3. Being kind to yourself/ your practice. I’ve spent many years beating myself up for not making enough, or just feeling totally uninspired. It took a long time to accept that I go through phases, and to celebrate what is working so I can be excited about the next thing!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.christopherstephen.net
• Instagram: @thecodexchris