Wishing you all a new year filled with clarity, peace of mind, laughter and success.
 |
| First Light, acrylic, house paint and ink on canvas, 12" x 9" |
Friday, December 29, 2017
Last Painting of 2017
Wednesday, December 6, 2017
About the Fucking Cake...
Do you believe a business should be able to refuse a wedding cake to an interracial couple? Because bigots find race-mixing offensive and against their "beliefs".
Staples prints church materials, it doesn't make them a Christian business. I painted a mural for a church in VA. I'm an atheist. If you're a baker, baking a cake doesn't endorse anything. Do you think your bakery gives a shit about your birthday? They're not pro-(insert your name here), dumbass. They just bake cakes.
It's not about the goddamned cake. If you don't want to serve someone you might not agree with then don't go into the fucking service industry. It's really that simple.
Thursday, November 16, 2017
Call to Artists: Trans Hub Fundraising Auction
Dear Artists,
Local businessman and Trans-activist Andrew Citino and I are organizing a fundraiser for the development of the Trans Hub, a resource site for the Tampa Bay Trans community. It will contain listings of professional and personal services such as Trans-friendly healthcare providers, businesses, events, education and opportunities.
I oversee the curating and organizing a silent auction for the event. We seek artworks which vary in style and price range.
Participating artists will receive payback of 50% of the auction selling price. Those who wish may donate a higher percentage.
The fundraiser will take place in January of 2018 at Freefall Theatre in St. Petersburg. It will include a screening of the documentary The Death and Lifeof Marsha P. Johnson as well as food and drink.
If you are interested in participating please submit up to 3 quality images of available works. Please include Title/Medium/Size info for each as well as what percentage of the auction selling price you wish to donate to: jgascot@gascot.com
Deadline: December 20, 2017
About Trans Hub:
We are local trans community leaders who saw a great need to develop a sustainable mechanism to share resources and events relevant to the Tampa Bay transgender community. We named it The Trans Hub because we envision an all-access website that provides professional and personal resources, education, event info, and opportunities to volunteer - a hub of information for the trans community.
We are local trans community leaders who saw a great need to develop a sustainable mechanism to share resources and events relevant to the Tampa Bay transgender community. We named it The Trans Hub because we envision an all-access website that provides professional and personal resources, education, event info, and opportunities to volunteer - a hub of information for the trans community.
The Trans Hub is continuing to raise funds to hire a
professional web designer. Because this website will provide an integral
resource to our trans community, it requires an expert who will work with us to
ensure a product that is state-of-the-art, user friendly, interactive, fully
accessible and robust. The Trans Hub will be a resource that does not currently
exist in Tampa Bay and is desperately needed.
Friday, November 10, 2017
New T-shirt: Love & Kisses
Look sharp in this Gascot-designed Pop Art tee. A pattern of off-set stylized lips (a common feature in John Gascot's paintings) make up a heart (another common theme in his work).
The graphic was composed from an original block print design.
Get yours HERE.
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
Kisses, Smooches, Mwah!
Kisses! Smooches! Mwah, darling!
This fabulously fun clutch purse is a great statement piece for day or night.
Black background with pink kisses makes it a flexible accessory.
Using linocut block I carved, I have given this vintage bag a new lease on life.
The ink is specifically made for fabric application.
This fabulously fun clutch purse is a great statement piece for day or night.
Black background with pink kisses makes it a flexible accessory.
Using linocut block I carved, I have given this vintage bag a new lease on life.
The ink is specifically made for fabric application.
Available from Latin Pop Shop on Etsy.
Monday, November 6, 2017
Exquisite Corpse Games, St. Pete
I was honored to be invited to join the Exquisite Corpse Games this year.
The game is designed to bring the artists out of their comfort zone and create a piece of art JUST FOR FUN.
I attended the introductory meeting for the games at St. Petersburg's Museum of Fine Arts (also where the final pieces were unveiled last week) eager and ready. Well, almost ready. It was a particularly busy month with upcoming exhibits and workshops. Per the rules of this game you only get 17 days in which to complete your section of the corpse so that the next (mystery) artist can get on to their piece. The pieces start at the legs, followed by torso and finally head.
So all through the meeting, during artist introductions, instructions and other pleasantries a record skipped inside my head. "Please don't give me legs. Please don't give me legs. Please don't give me legs."
Not only did I have a hectic schedule and feared having to tackle an extra task would affect the quality of the piece, but vanity also played a role in my anxiety over getting legs. I'm mostly known for "my ladies". Their stylized faces are, for lack of a better word, part of my "brand". What would I do with legs or even a torso?
Finally the envelopes were handed out and I carefully opened mine. Wouldn't you know it??? I got the goddamned legs.
At this point I settled into my role and took on the challenge. I had to remember that I was to create JUST FOR FUN. And I did. I resisted injecting too much thematically into my piece and created out of chaos. The result: a quasi self-portrait. A barefoot artist painting another barefoot artist (or self) among his creations and inspirations (women and music).
The game is designed to bring the artists out of their comfort zone and create a piece of art JUST FOR FUN.
I attended the introductory meeting for the games at St. Petersburg's Museum of Fine Arts (also where the final pieces were unveiled last week) eager and ready. Well, almost ready. It was a particularly busy month with upcoming exhibits and workshops. Per the rules of this game you only get 17 days in which to complete your section of the corpse so that the next (mystery) artist can get on to their piece. The pieces start at the legs, followed by torso and finally head.
So all through the meeting, during artist introductions, instructions and other pleasantries a record skipped inside my head. "Please don't give me legs. Please don't give me legs. Please don't give me legs."
Not only did I have a hectic schedule and feared having to tackle an extra task would affect the quality of the piece, but vanity also played a role in my anxiety over getting legs. I'm mostly known for "my ladies". Their stylized faces are, for lack of a better word, part of my "brand". What would I do with legs or even a torso?
Finally the envelopes were handed out and I carefully opened mine. Wouldn't you know it??? I got the goddamned legs.
At this point I settled into my role and took on the challenge. I had to remember that I was to create JUST FOR FUN. And I did. I resisted injecting too much thematically into my piece and created out of chaos. The result: a quasi self-portrait. A barefoot artist painting another barefoot artist (or self) among his creations and inspirations (women and music).
 |
| Barefoot Artist, my collaboration to Exquisite Corpse Games 2017 |
 |
| The complete 3-painting collaboration. Photo credit: Freddie Fred, who created the piece's torso. The head was painted by Tammy Berk. |
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Spooky-Ooky Halloween Art
Happy Halloween, everyone! These spooky-ooky, cutesy monster creations are available (prints, inquire about originals) through Latin Pop Shop on Etsy. Each is matted in white to measure 5" x 7" and fits into standard frames. A great addition to any horror movie buff's collection.
 |
| Mistress of the Dark |
 |
| I Vant to Suck Your Blood |
 |
| Frankie |
 |
| Catrina Girl |
Sunday, October 8, 2017
Don't Blink!
Here is a lovely interview published by ontampa.com about my work.
John Gascot moves at lightning speed. If you blink, you’ll miss him…but that’s what it’s like to be a man with a mission. I first met this energetic artist when we were showing at the Twelve Days of Dali. He had lovely make up on and stood next to his portrait of Frida Kahlo. Since then, I have run into him at several shows that he has curated. He is such a force that rather than speak for him, I have decided to let the artist speak for himself.
You currently curate Pom Pom’s, Cider Press Café, run Galleries at 5563 and were a runner up for “Best of the Bay” in Creative Loafing. You are organizing art shows for “Come OUT St. Pete” as well. Is there anything else that I need to add to this list of jobs that you maintain?
On occasion I curate shows at other spaces, such as Derek Donnelly’s COVE gallery as the opportunities present themselves. About a quarter of my time is dedicated to volunteerism. Community is very important to me and fuels my creativity. I truly believe that art can be a vehicle for social change. I am the Chair and curator for Equality Florida’s St. Pete Gala art auction. I also launched my non-profit, Diversity Arts which dedicates itself to providing safe environments for disenfranchised and multi-cultural youth to explore and express self-identity. Also to provide opportunities for cross-cultural creative collaboration.
How long have you been doing art? What got you started in this?
I have been creative all my life and I feel like I could have been happy in any one of several creative fields I studied or worked in. The cards just had painting in store for me. As a child I always drew and wrote stories. Theater was my life all through high school and I went to college in NYC for play writing and acting. Following that I worked as a makeup artist and performed as a female impersonator on stage for about a decade.
My husband and I purchased our first home in the mountains of Northeast PA. We lived in a small town where there wasn’t much of a career to be had as a makeup artist. There was, however a bit of tourism in the area so we took a stab at being gallerists in the early 2000s. I would paint while gallery sitting and eventually the works made their way on to the walls and then started going home with vacationers. I’ve been painting full time ever since.
What is your main mission, outreach, or message that you wish to impart with your art?
One of the main goals of my art is to promote diversity. I believe that art should be for EVERYbody, regardless of economical status or education level. I also think it’s important that art represent everybody (race, orientation, gender, body types etc.) Art isn’t only about the Reubenesque white ladies frolicking in forests museums are filled with. Every child that visits a museum should be able to find a face like theirs in art.
You know I have to ask this — I ask all of the creatives that I interview: what advice do you have for new artists?
Be realistic about your goals as an artist. Is it a hobby or do you want to support yourself as a creative? If the answer is the latter then don’t over-romanticize and make the time and effort to learn how to run a business because that is what full-time artists are, small businesses the same as any boutique or restaurant. Organization and time-management are crucial in building a business. Also, be humble. No one wants to do business with a diva. At the end of the day, however deep and meaningful the intentions behind our creations may be we are selling a product. Our product just happens to also often have a certain level cultural importance or relevance behind it.
So, as a small businessman selling art, what advice do you have for art collectors?
Always buy what you love, but support living, and most importantly LOCAL artists. They are creating culture and change in your immediate community and deserve to be supported. Remember that artists are small businesses and your art purchase from a local studio stimulates your local economy just as much as any other business you choose to support. And if you want to be a collector but think that you can’t afford to be, get rid of that notion altogether. EVERYONE can be an art collector. There are many price points out there. I have small works of art in my collection that cost me less than a dinner for two at McDonald’s.
A glance at his phone and it was time to wrap things up. He has just sent out acceptance notes and reminders for a show he is putting up at Pom Pom’s this weekend. With a gracious smile and a nod he arose. And then I blinked…and he was gone.
John Gascot moves at lightning speed. If you blink, you’ll miss him…but that’s what it’s like to be a man with a mission. I first met this energetic artist when we were showing at the Twelve Days of Dali. He had lovely make up on and stood next to his portrait of Frida Kahlo. Since then, I have run into him at several shows that he has curated. He is such a force that rather than speak for him, I have decided to let the artist speak for himself.
You currently curate Pom Pom’s, Cider Press Café, run Galleries at 5563 and were a runner up for “Best of the Bay” in Creative Loafing. You are organizing art shows for “Come OUT St. Pete” as well. Is there anything else that I need to add to this list of jobs that you maintain?
On occasion I curate shows at other spaces, such as Derek Donnelly’s COVE gallery as the opportunities present themselves. About a quarter of my time is dedicated to volunteerism. Community is very important to me and fuels my creativity. I truly believe that art can be a vehicle for social change. I am the Chair and curator for Equality Florida’s St. Pete Gala art auction. I also launched my non-profit, Diversity Arts which dedicates itself to providing safe environments for disenfranchised and multi-cultural youth to explore and express self-identity. Also to provide opportunities for cross-cultural creative collaboration.
How long have you been doing art? What got you started in this?
I have been creative all my life and I feel like I could have been happy in any one of several creative fields I studied or worked in. The cards just had painting in store for me. As a child I always drew and wrote stories. Theater was my life all through high school and I went to college in NYC for play writing and acting. Following that I worked as a makeup artist and performed as a female impersonator on stage for about a decade.
My husband and I purchased our first home in the mountains of Northeast PA. We lived in a small town where there wasn’t much of a career to be had as a makeup artist. There was, however a bit of tourism in the area so we took a stab at being gallerists in the early 2000s. I would paint while gallery sitting and eventually the works made their way on to the walls and then started going home with vacationers. I’ve been painting full time ever since.
What is your main mission, outreach, or message that you wish to impart with your art?
One of the main goals of my art is to promote diversity. I believe that art should be for EVERYbody, regardless of economical status or education level. I also think it’s important that art represent everybody (race, orientation, gender, body types etc.) Art isn’t only about the Reubenesque white ladies frolicking in forests museums are filled with. Every child that visits a museum should be able to find a face like theirs in art.
You know I have to ask this — I ask all of the creatives that I interview: what advice do you have for new artists?
Be realistic about your goals as an artist. Is it a hobby or do you want to support yourself as a creative? If the answer is the latter then don’t over-romanticize and make the time and effort to learn how to run a business because that is what full-time artists are, small businesses the same as any boutique or restaurant. Organization and time-management are crucial in building a business. Also, be humble. No one wants to do business with a diva. At the end of the day, however deep and meaningful the intentions behind our creations may be we are selling a product. Our product just happens to also often have a certain level cultural importance or relevance behind it.
So, as a small businessman selling art, what advice do you have for art collectors?
Always buy what you love, but support living, and most importantly LOCAL artists. They are creating culture and change in your immediate community and deserve to be supported. Remember that artists are small businesses and your art purchase from a local studio stimulates your local economy just as much as any other business you choose to support. And if you want to be a collector but think that you can’t afford to be, get rid of that notion altogether. EVERYONE can be an art collector. There are many price points out there. I have small works of art in my collection that cost me less than a dinner for two at McDonald’s.
A glance at his phone and it was time to wrap things up. He has just sent out acceptance notes and reminders for a show he is putting up at Pom Pom’s this weekend. With a gracious smile and a nod he arose. And then I blinked…and he was gone.
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Dear Conservatives, Trump is Letting my People Die
Donald Trump doesn't care for people of color (or any minority for that matter). He swindles a vote from those he can and tosses them aside like used Kleenex. This motherfucker is letting my/our people DIE. I'm equally enraged and heartbroken. And twice as disgusted at the fact that he's being allowed to carry on with his racist childish ways. This tide must turn.
I don't have to address Liberals. I know we agree. But to anyone who supported this man because you TRULY believed it was the right thing to do, if there is a shred of humanity in you there can (and must) be no denying what is playing out before our very eyes. I implore you to STAND UP, as you do for your flags and anthems. This is not your leader. I have faith that you must be better than this. Speak out and RESIST. Doing the right thing doesn't make you a traitor to your party, it makes you a respectable American. Please, don't let our people in Puerto Rico die.
I don't have to address Liberals. I know we agree. But to anyone who supported this man because you TRULY believed it was the right thing to do, if there is a shred of humanity in you there can (and must) be no denying what is playing out before our very eyes. I implore you to STAND UP, as you do for your flags and anthems. This is not your leader. I have faith that you must be better than this. Speak out and RESIST. Doing the right thing doesn't make you a traitor to your party, it makes you a respectable American. Please, don't let our people in Puerto Rico die.
Monday, September 25, 2017
Dreamers
In this uncertain sociopolitical climate we must stand for the things we believe in. Our voices must be clear and loud. I stand with our Dreamers and DACA. This piece was inspired by Trump's recent threat to the Dream Act.
 |
Dreamers, acrylic, house paint and ink on canvas, 20"x 16"
|
Monday, September 18, 2017
Charlie's Joint
I've been wanting to "dirty up" my Latin pop work with painterly qualities and texture for a while now. While my love of flat color fields and bold lines remains, a desire to loosen things up without losing my identifiable signature look has been nagging at me for a while. I think that Charlie's Joint achieves this. I look forward to continued exploration of this approach. I named the painting Charlie's Joint because I listened to nothing but Charlie Parker during its creation. I painted the original piece using house paint, acrylics, ink and collage.
The original has sold but limited edition prints are available in sizes ranging from 11" x 11" to 44" x 44". You may purchase your very own through my online store, Latin Pop Shop on etsy or by visiting my studio.
Sunday, September 17, 2017
My Love/Hate Relationship with Kodi and Why I Didn't Watch the Emmy's Tonight
Not so long ago we were given a Firestick for my birthday. The device wasn't given to us for the sole purpose of replacing our Apple TV (which we were perfectly happy with) but to expand our viewing pleasure with the magical gifts of the almighty Kodi. We were ready for our minds to be blown and so we embarked on our Kodi adventure. A few days in cancelled our cable subscription and pared down our Netflix to streaming only.
We were initially excited, I'll admit. The access to what seems like any movie or tv show you can think of seemed too good to be true. Am I really watching Alien Covenant before it's out on video??? The thrill of it almost made up for the disappointment. In space no one might hear you scream, but you can't escape how badly a movie can suck.
We were initially excited, I'll admit. The access to what seems like any movie or tv show you can think of seemed too good to be true. Am I really watching Alien Covenant before it's out on video??? The thrill of it almost made up for the disappointment. In space no one might hear you scream, but you can't escape how badly a movie can suck.
"If you've got Kodi, why do you still pay for cable?" they said.
"Kodi is amazing." they said.
"You'll never want for another tv service." they said.
They LIED.
Here's the thing, if you are a horror (or any genre, really) buff like me, you probably seek out articles and lists of films that might not make it to your local theater or even dvd. Through a Kodi search you will find countless of these to add to your "Favourites" list. What you don't realize, as you continue to fill your queue with nerdish delight is that actually viewing many of the titles is a total crapshoot.
Perhaps, although you were able to find that obscure movie you've been dying to watch, no stream is available. Perhaps there are many streams available, but none are 1080p (apparently the highest quality) or even HD so your only options are grainy or pixelated, or sadly, even a pirate version shot by someone with a handheld device.
Or maybe, SCORE! The movie IS available and at crisp quality, to boot, so you settle down with your favorite cocktail or snack to watch only to find out 30 minutes into it that 30 minutes worth is all the stream offered. You might find that foreign movie you've heard so much about and covered your bases...high definition stream, check...full movie, check. Now we're cooking! Wait, something isn't lining up here...the subtitles are to a completely different movie.
Almost all of the above also applies to tv shows. This week's Scientology and the Aftermath was a delight to watch. Next week everyone, including Leah Remini might be blurred or pixelated beyond recognition as if suddenly in the Witness Relocation Program. I don't know about you, but I like my RuPaul's Drag Race crisp and clear. I'll admit I've never felt fully at ease with the concept but gave in to peer pressure and the promise of having a world of horror and arthouse movies at my fingertips. I wouldn't want people to just download my paintings and decorate their homes with them without me reaping any benefits so I should know and be better. In a way it feels a bit like well-deserved karma.
Kodi is great if you don't mind sometimes spending upwards of 40 minutes before finding a movie you can actually watch or being frustrated to the point of watching a movie at a quality you would never consider acceptable were it a dvd or other legit streaming service. I look forward to ditching Kodi and going back to knowing I have direct access to what I want to watch when I want to watch it.
Here's the thing, if you are a horror (or any genre, really) buff like me, you probably seek out articles and lists of films that might not make it to your local theater or even dvd. Through a Kodi search you will find countless of these to add to your "Favourites" list. What you don't realize, as you continue to fill your queue with nerdish delight is that actually viewing many of the titles is a total crapshoot.
Perhaps, although you were able to find that obscure movie you've been dying to watch, no stream is available. Perhaps there are many streams available, but none are 1080p (apparently the highest quality) or even HD so your only options are grainy or pixelated, or sadly, even a pirate version shot by someone with a handheld device.
Or maybe, SCORE! The movie IS available and at crisp quality, to boot, so you settle down with your favorite cocktail or snack to watch only to find out 30 minutes into it that 30 minutes worth is all the stream offered. You might find that foreign movie you've heard so much about and covered your bases...high definition stream, check...full movie, check. Now we're cooking! Wait, something isn't lining up here...the subtitles are to a completely different movie.
Almost all of the above also applies to tv shows. This week's Scientology and the Aftermath was a delight to watch. Next week everyone, including Leah Remini might be blurred or pixelated beyond recognition as if suddenly in the Witness Relocation Program. I don't know about you, but I like my RuPaul's Drag Race crisp and clear. I'll admit I've never felt fully at ease with the concept but gave in to peer pressure and the promise of having a world of horror and arthouse movies at my fingertips. I wouldn't want people to just download my paintings and decorate their homes with them without me reaping any benefits so I should know and be better. In a way it feels a bit like well-deserved karma.
Kodi is great if you don't mind sometimes spending upwards of 40 minutes before finding a movie you can actually watch or being frustrated to the point of watching a movie at a quality you would never consider acceptable were it a dvd or other legit streaming service. I look forward to ditching Kodi and going back to knowing I have direct access to what I want to watch when I want to watch it.
Friday, September 15, 2017
Call for Art: Artist's Choice
Artist's Choice
Pom Pom's Teahouse and Sandwicheria, St. Pete invites Tampa Bay artists to submit entries for its upcoming exhibit. Artists may submit up to 5 quality images of their choice (at least 500x500 and no larger than 1000x1000 pixels) of available works. Each entry should measure no smaller than 8" x 8" and no larger than 30" x 40 ". All work must be properly wired and ready to hang on a display system upon delivery (no sawtooth hangers, wire only, please).
This exhibit will run from October 8 through the month of December 2017. Commission split is 30%, with 70% to the artist. Please submit images along with Title/Medium/Size info for each to: jgascot@gascot.com
Submission deadline: Friday, September 30.
Acceptance emails will be sent by Monday, October 1.
All accepted works must be delivered on Sunday, October 8, 5:00 pm.
If you wish to receive email notifications about future artist calls or if you are submitting for this one please join the Artist Call email list via the link below:
Thursday, September 14, 2017
Making Art After Hurricane Irma
Hurricane Irma has come and gone. While we were left without power for 3 days (some remain without electricity) and sustained some damages locally, we are very fortunate in comparison to what could have been. Nonetheless, it has been a trying and unsettling experience and our Pinellas County/Tampa Bay community has shown its best side rallying together to rebuild.
Prior to Irma I'd been nagged by an urge to focus on works on paper for the next 3 months to a year. Specifically, I felt the need to create a butterfly image. Yesterday I returned to the studio and created this. Butterflies are a sign of rebirth, renewal and freedom. This is the first piece of art I've made since Hurricane Irma turned many Florida lives upside down.
Each one-of-a-kind block print is matted to 8" x 10" and priced at just $20.
You can order your own from my Latin Pop Shop Etsy store.
Saturday, September 2, 2017
Call for Art: Creatives Helping Creatives
As we all know by now Hurricane Harvey has caused tremendous devastation to many in Texas. While no one can help everyone, we all can help someone. This art show is all about creatives helping other creatives in their time of need.
The staff of the Alley Theatre has suffered personally as possessions, automobiles, and homes have been damaged and destroyed. We are very concerned about and their recovery during this trying time.
A portion of the proceeds from this exhibit will benefit the Alley Theatre Employee Flood Assistance Fund.
The Cider Press Café and curator John Gascot invite Tampa Bay artists to submit entries for this upcoming exhibit. This will be a non-theme "Artist's Choice "exhibit. Artists may submit up to 5 quality images of available works. Each entry should measure no less than 6x6" and no larger than 24" x 30.
The show will run from September 12, 2017 through November 6, 2017.
Commission split: 50% artist/50% Flood Relief
Please submit images along with Title/Medium/Size information for each to jgascot@gascot.com
Due to the nature of this effort the submission period is shorter than usual.
Submission deadline: Thursday, September 7, 2017.
Acceptance emails will be sent by Friday, September 8, 2017.
All accepted works MUST be delivered on Saturday, September 9, Noon.
A fundraiser event/reception will be held at a soon TBA date.
If you wish to receive email notifications about future artist calls or if you are submitting for this one please join the Artist Call email list via the link below.
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
Call for Art: Play
The Cider Press Café and curator John Gascot invite Tampa Bay artists to submit entries for their upcoming exhibit, Play. Artists may submit up to 5 quality images of available works. Each entry should measure no less than 6x6". There is no size limit; larger works are welcome.
Play will run from November 6, 2017 through January 6, 2018.
Commission split: 30% curator/ 70% artist.
Please submit images along with Title/Medium/Size information for each to jgascot@gascot.com
Submission deadline: October 28, 2017.
Acceptance emails will be sent by October 30, 2017.
All accepted works MUST be delivered on Saturday, November 4, 11:00 AM.
If you wish to receive email notifications about future artist calls or if you are submitting for this one please join the Artist Call email list via the link below.
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
Best of the Bay 2017 Nominations
We've been nominated!
Hello Everyone! I am thrilled to share that I, along with the Studios at 5663 and other artists of the Pinellas Arts Village have been nominated for some awards. If you enjoy my art and community engagement through art, please take a moment to cast your vote for me in the following categories:
Best Local Visual Artist
Best Artist CL Doesn't Cover
Best Visual Arts Curator
and the Studios at 5663 team (Best Gallery-non museum) for this year's Best of the Bay Awards.
Also consider casting a vote for Pinellas Arts Village artists in the following categories:
Best Art Party- Panting with Loy
Best Fashion Designer- Raul Del Castillo Designs
Best Mural- Jackie Robinson by Derek Donnelly
Best Public Art (non mural)- Trojan Horse by Vince Pompei and Derek Donnelly
Best Art Exhibit (non museum)- Female Persuasion (curated by Yours Truly)
You can vote from anywhere.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Use the link below:
VOTE HERE
Best Local Visual Artist
Best Artist CL Doesn't Cover
Best Visual Arts Curator
and the Studios at 5663 team (Best Gallery-non museum) for this year's Best of the Bay Awards.
Also consider casting a vote for Pinellas Arts Village artists in the following categories:
Best Art Party- Panting with Loy
Best Fashion Designer- Raul Del Castillo Designs
Best Mural- Jackie Robinson by Derek Donnelly
Best Public Art (non mural)- Trojan Horse by Vince Pompei and Derek Donnelly
Best Art Exhibit (non museum)- Female Persuasion (curated by Yours Truly)
You can vote from anywhere.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Use the link below:
VOTE HERE
Thursday, July 27, 2017
Diversion or Threat?
There's much talk of "diversion" regarding the president's military trans ban (and Session's attack on our civil rights). Diversions they very well may be, but don't be fooled or try to fool your LGBTQ friends and family (no matter how kind your intentions) into thinking that a diversion cannot also be a grave threat on our communities. Whether or not Trump's declarations come to fruition, the Child-in-Charge knows very well his words carry tremendous weight. Each shameful tweet sets into motion a series of event among cowardly sheeple who hate from the sidelines, just waiting for the word "GO".
Wednesday, July 19, 2017
Friday, July 14, 2017
Call for Art: Come Out St. Pete
This Fall in St. Petersburg, FL the Grand Central District and neighboring districts will come alive in celebration of National Coming Out Day. The inaugural Come OUT St. Pete will be comprised of a series of events Oct.11-15, 2017 and will focus on, celebrate and raise awareness about self-truth, pride, community and acceptance. An important preceding event will be Come OUT St. Pete Art Exhibit & Contest, at which prizes will be awarded and an image will be chosen to represent this year's festival in merchandise and promotions.
Come OUT St. Pete and curator John Gascot invite Tampa Bay artists to submit entries for the upcoming pop up exhibit, Come OUT St. Pete. Artists may submit up to 5 quality images (at least 500 x 500 and no larger than 1000 x 1000 pixels) of available works. Each entry should measure no less than 8x8" and no more than 30x40". First Place winner agrees to grant Come OUT St. Pete copyright of winning image for use in merchandise and promotion of the festival. Artists must be able to provide high quality 300dpi image of their submission to be considered for prizes as 1st place will be printed on merchandise and promo materials. Note: While submissions should translate well to print and keep in mind the theme of Come OUT St. Pete and what it promotes, this is not a logo contest.
The Come OUT St. Pete Art Exhibit & Contest will take place on Friday, September 15, 6-9pm at E.P.I.C. ASAP Campus, St. Pete.
Prizes:
(18 yrs and over):
1st Place- $500 in cash and prizes and inclusion in Come OUT St. Pete 2017 Merchandise.
2nd Place- $150 in cash and prizes.
3rd Place- $75 in cash and prizes.
Young Artist Award (under 18 yrs)- $150 in cash and prizes.
Jurors:
Carla Bristol, gallerist and curator at Gallerie 909
John Gascot, Artist, curator and gallery coordinator at Studios at 5663
Jim Woodfield, Artist and owner of Woodfield Fine Art Gallery
Please submit images along with Title/Medium/Size information for each to jgascot@gascot.com
Submission deadline: Wednesday, August 27, 2017
Acceptance emails will be sent by Thursday August 31, 2017.
Delivery of accepted artworks: Tuesday Sept 5 & Wednesday Sept 6, 10-6pm (details in acceptance email)
Commission split on sold works is 30% to event organizers/70% to the artist.
If you wish to receive email notifications about future artist calls or if you are submitting for this one please join the Artist Call email list via the link below.
Wednesday, July 12, 2017
Double Art Call: Hispanic Heritage Month
Sueños Americanos (American Dreams)
This curated art exhibition will focus on works by Latino artists celebrating contemporary Latino culture. The exhibition is open to visual artists working in a variety of mediums and styles. A common occurrence in Latino culture is the search for a perceived “American Dream”. Migration into the US is often part of that perception. Inside the United States, Latino Americans often juggle the traditions of their given heritage with integration into American culture. This exhibit will explore the dualities of the Latino American experience and how they uniquely inform the artistic voice of each artist represented.
Location: COVE Gallery at Pinellas Arts Village, Pinellas Park, FL
Ritmo Latino (Latin Rhythm)
This curated art exhibition is open to all visual artists working in a variety of mediums and styles. The focus of this exhibit is celebration of Latino culture through representations of music, food, people and general iconography. Tropical imagery is also welcome.
Location: Cider Press Café, St. Petersburg, FL
Artists may submit up to 10 quality images (at least 500x500 and no larger than 1000x1000 pixels) of available works. Each entry should measure no less than 6" x 6" or more than 30" x 40" (a few exceptions might be considered). All work must be properly wired and ready to hang upon delivery.
Commission split is 30%,with 70% to the artist. Please submit images along with Title/Medium/Size info for each to: jgascot@gascot.com
Submission deadline: Saturday, August 26.
Acceptance notifications will be sent by Wednesday, August 30.
Acceptance notifications will be sent by Wednesday, August 30.
All accepted works must be delivered on Saturday, September 2.
-Cider Press Café, 11 am
-COVE Gallery, 1 pm
An opening reception for Cider Press' exhibit will be held on a soon-after TBD date.Two opening receptions will be held for COVE's exhibit, one on a soon TBD date and the other on September 30 4-8 pm during Pinellas Arts Village 4th Saturday Art Walk.
If you wish to receive email notifications about future artist calls or if you are submitting for this one please join the Artist Call email list via the link below:
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
Call for Art: Cool it Down
Pom Pom's Teahouse and Sandwicheria, St. Pete and curator John Gascot invite Tampa Bay artists to submit entries for their upcoming exhibit, Cool it Down. Artists may submit up to 5 quality images (at least 500 x 500 and no larger than 1000 x 1000 pixels) of available works. Each entry should measure no less than 8x8" and no more than 30x40".
Cool it Down will run from August 7, 2017 through September 30.
Commission split: 30% curator/ 70% artist.
Please submit images along with Title/Medium/Size information for each to jgascot@gascot.com
Submission deadline: Sunday, July 30.
Acceptance emails will be sent by Tuesday, August 1.
All accepted works MUST be delivered on Sunday, August 6, 5:00 pm.
If you wish to receive email notifications about future artist calls or if you are submitting for this one please join the Artist Call email list via the link below.
Thursday, June 22, 2017
Best of the Bay Award Nominations
Dear Boys & Girls, Ladies & Gents,
The time is here to make your suggestions for this year's Best of the Bay [http://www.cltampa.com/botb2017] nominations. You can do so from any location!
If you enjoy what I create, express, and how I engage with the community through art programming, please consider nominating me for any or all of the following Arts & Entertainment categories:
Best Visual Artist
Best Visual Arts Curator
Best Artist CL Doesn't Cover
Just enter my first and last name, John Gascot, into the nomination slot(s) here [http://local.cltampa.com/vote/59369f9335ab46c46f0e0e1f/59369fcb35ab46c46f0e0e33] and voila!
Also, please consider nominating The Studios @ 5663 for Best Art Gallery (non-museum).
Thank you all so very much!
The time is here to make your suggestions for this year's Best of the Bay [http://www.cltampa.com/botb2017] nominations. You can do so from any location!
If you enjoy what I create, express, and how I engage with the community through art programming, please consider nominating me for any or all of the following Arts & Entertainment categories:
Best Visual Artist
Best Visual Arts Curator
Best Artist CL Doesn't Cover
Just enter my first and last name, John Gascot, into the nomination slot(s) here [http://local.cltampa.com/vote/59369f9335ab46c46f0e0e1f/59369fcb35ab46c46f0e0e33] and voila!
Also, please consider nominating The Studios @ 5663 for Best Art Gallery (non-museum).
Thank you all so very much!
Thursday, June 8, 2017
Wednesday, May 24, 2017
Call for Art: All the World's a Stage
The Cider Press Cafe, St. Pete and curator John Gascot invite Tampa Bay artists to submit entries for their upcoming exhibit All the World's a Stage.
This group exhibit will feature artworks celebrating the world of theatre (plays, musicals, stage actors, theatre life). Artists may submit up to 10 quality images (at least 500x500 and no larger than 1000x1000 pixels) of available works. Each entry should measure no less than 6" x 6". There is no size limit and medium to larger works are encouraged and welcome. All work must be properly wired and ready to hang upon delivery.
Commission split is 30%,with 70% to the artist. Please submit images along with Title/Medium/Size info for each to: jgascot@gascot.com
Submission deadline: July 12.
All accepted works must be delivered on Saturday, July 15, 11 am.
A cabaret opening reception for this exhibit will be held on a soon-after TBD date.
If you wish to receive email notifications about future artist calls or if you are submitting for this one please join the Artist Call email list via the link below:
Monday, May 15, 2017
Call for Participants: "Mosaic" Multi-Cultural Youth Art Workshop
Mosaic is an artist-led socially-engaged project working with
Multicultural Youth. It is a partnership between artist John Gascot (Lead),
co-lead artists and youth participants ages 11-14.
In June of 2017 Mr. Gascot will lead alongside co-lead art instructor Noelle Stillman a group of approximately 10 Multicultural Youths on a 4-day expressive arts program. There is no cost to participants. The workshop will take place at Allendale UMC. Allendale UMC has made a large classroom available to the project at no cost. The workshop is in no way faith-based. During the 4-day period Gascot and Stillman and will provide instruction and guidance as the students create stylized culturally expressive self-portraits celebrating their heritage and ancestry. Each portrait will be composed of 4 panels which will later be separated and mixed with the portraits of others to create various “mosaic” cross-cultural portraits. All final creative decisions will be made by the students. Once works are completed, an exhibit and opening reception celebrating the youth participants and their works will be held (dates and details will be announced soon). This event will be free and open to the public. The goal of this project is to bring youth from varying cultural backgrounds together in a safe and professional setting for cross-learning and cross-cultural creative teamwork. Through a shared art-making process they will learn about one another, what makes them culturally unique and how those differences might have enriched their creative experience.
In June of 2017 Mr. Gascot will lead alongside co-lead art instructor Noelle Stillman a group of approximately 10 Multicultural Youths on a 4-day expressive arts program. There is no cost to participants. The workshop will take place at Allendale UMC. Allendale UMC has made a large classroom available to the project at no cost. The workshop is in no way faith-based. During the 4-day period Gascot and Stillman and will provide instruction and guidance as the students create stylized culturally expressive self-portraits celebrating their heritage and ancestry. Each portrait will be composed of 4 panels which will later be separated and mixed with the portraits of others to create various “mosaic” cross-cultural portraits. All final creative decisions will be made by the students. Once works are completed, an exhibit and opening reception celebrating the youth participants and their works will be held (dates and details will be announced soon). This event will be free and open to the public. The goal of this project is to bring youth from varying cultural backgrounds together in a safe and professional setting for cross-learning and cross-cultural creative teamwork. Through a shared art-making process they will learn about one another, what makes them culturally unique and how those differences might have enriched their creative experience.
-10 student participants, ages 11-14, from at least 3-5
cultural backgrounds
-Two teaching artists
-One 2hr session per day
Workshop Dates:
Monday, June 26, 10am-noon
Tuesday, June 27, 10am-noon
Wednesday, June 28, 10am-noon
Thursday, June 29, 10am-noon
Project contact:
John Gascot, jgascot@gascot.com
This project is possible through a grant from the Saint Petersburg Arts Alliance.
Monday, June 26, 10am-noon
Tuesday, June 27, 10am-noon
Wednesday, June 28, 10am-noon
Thursday, June 29, 10am-noon
Project contact:
John Gascot, jgascot@gascot.com
This project is possible through a grant from the Saint Petersburg Arts Alliance.
Friday, May 12, 2017
Thursday, May 4, 2017
Monday, April 24, 2017
Call for Art: Liberty for All
Pom Pom's Teahouse & Sandwicheria and curator John Gascot invite Tampa Bay artists to submit entries for their upcoming exhibit Liberty for All.
This group exhibit will feature artworks celebrating and exploring LGBTQ Pride and the theme of equality. Tampa bay area artists may submit up to 5 quality images (at least 500x500 and no larger than 1000x1000 pixels) of available works. Each entry should measure no less than 6" x 6" and no larger than 30" x 40". Medium to smaller (easy to travel with) works are encouraged as the exhibit will run during St. Pete's Pride festivities, which attract large number of tourists. All work must be properly wired (no sawtooth hangers) and ready to hang upon delivery.
Liberty for All will run from June 5, 2017 through August 6, 2017. Commission split is 30%,with 70% to the artist. Please submit images along with Title/Medium/Size info for each to: jgascot@gascot.com
Submission deadline: Friday, May 26.
Acceptance emails will be sent by Monday, May 29.
All accepted works must be delivered on Sunday, June 4, 5pm.
An opening reception for this exhibit will be held on Saturday, June 10, 6-9pm.
If you wish to receive email notifications about future artist calls or if you are submitting for this one please join the Artist Call email list via the link below:
Trinity Within
It's no secret that I have issues aplenty with organized religions. In my opinion they seldom serve to empower and free the individual. Quite the opposite, actually. There are of course, as with all things, exceptions and I do know and hold the utmost respect for people who have found evolved and inclusive ways to navigate religious waters.
However at odds I might find myself with the concepts and rules of organized religions, I can't help but be continually inspired by its imagery, folklore and pageantry. It is a clear and undeniable influence in much of my work. I strive to use this imagery in ways that might be empowering to the viewer.
In this piece, Trinity Within, I propose a female Holy Trinity, as I find feminine energy to be the strongest and purest. I'm sure my attraction to female energy isn't unrelated to having been raised solely by women. I have always enjoyed a point of view that is well aware of the changes women can set into motion in this world and the powers they possess. It is by no coincidence that they have always been in a struggle for equality and on the forefront of change.
In my paintings I propose that strength is always within us and we need not depend on or subscribe to biblical routines to find the solution to our problems, let alone reach a place of inner-peace.
The flowers in Trinity Within hold special meanings. Water Lilies (a recurring element in my work) represent rebirth. Cosmos are often seen as symbols of love and peace. Most importantly, the Bird of Paradise represents the exploration of unchartered territories and the search for one's personal paradise.
However at odds I might find myself with the concepts and rules of organized religions, I can't help but be continually inspired by its imagery, folklore and pageantry. It is a clear and undeniable influence in much of my work. I strive to use this imagery in ways that might be empowering to the viewer.
In this piece, Trinity Within, I propose a female Holy Trinity, as I find feminine energy to be the strongest and purest. I'm sure my attraction to female energy isn't unrelated to having been raised solely by women. I have always enjoyed a point of view that is well aware of the changes women can set into motion in this world and the powers they possess. It is by no coincidence that they have always been in a struggle for equality and on the forefront of change.
In my paintings I propose that strength is always within us and we need not depend on or subscribe to biblical routines to find the solution to our problems, let alone reach a place of inner-peace.
The flowers in Trinity Within hold special meanings. Water Lilies (a recurring element in my work) represent rebirth. Cosmos are often seen as symbols of love and peace. Most importantly, the Bird of Paradise represents the exploration of unchartered territories and the search for one's personal paradise.
 |
| Trinity Within, acrylic on canvas, 36" x 36" |
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
Thursday, March 2, 2017
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
Call for Art: Circus
There's no forgetting the excitement we felt as children when our parents took us to see the circus. The sounds, the smells and of course, THE SIGHTS transported us into new worlds. After an astounding 146 years, Ringling Brothers, perhaps the most famous of all circuses will be taking its final bow. As adults we may have different views on this but it is nevertheless bittersweet for most. Circus will explore and celebrate the nostalgia of life and showmanship under the big top.
Pom Pom's Teahouse and Sandwicheria, St. Pete and curator John Gascot invite Tampa Bay artists to submit entries for their upcoming exhibit, Circus. Artists may submit up to 5 quality images (at least 500 x 500 and no larger than 1000 x 1000 pixels) of available works. Each entry should measure no less than 8x8" and no more than 30x40".
Circus will run from April 3, 2017 through the month of May.
Commission split: 30% curator/ 70% artist.
Please submit images along with Title/Medium/Size information for each to jgascot@gascot.com
Submission deadline: Wednesday, March 22.
Acceptance emails will be sent by Sunday, March 25.
All accepted works MUST be delivered on Sunday, April 2, 5:00 pm.
An opening reception event will be held on Saturday, April 8, 6-9 pm.
If you wish to receive email notifications about future artist calls or if you are submitting for this one please join the Artist Call email list via the link below.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
