NAME: Courtney Stubbert
BIRTH PLACE: Eugene, Oregon
BIRTH DATE: 8.16.74
BIOGRAPHY
I was born and raised in Oregon. I cut my teeth on skateboarding graphics, punk rock and hip-hop. My first favorite artists were MC Escher, Andy Warhol, Chuck Jones and Salvador Dali. I also read a lot of comics. I usually found the halftone dots and overprinted colors more inspiring than the stories. Though at the time I didn't know why. I found the subconscious leanings of Dali provided permission to embrace the depths of my imagination and not be to concerned with self-conscious editing.
I lived in Seattle in the 90's while I attended design school. I recently finished a BA in Art History at the University of Oregon. I decided that the additional degree was a necessity for a family-supporting salary, but also because I had too many questions about art that needed structured answering. At 30, I was more able to ask the right questions than I would have been in my early 20's. This experience has been hugely influencial on my art and understanding of my own culture and time.
I've been to europe three times. Once as a drummer in a band, once on a pilgramage to art historical sites and once to see my brother get married in Norway- a beautiful place.
I've been in many bands as a drummer. Music maintains an important place in my mental and spiritual well being. Currently I can be heard playing www.myspace.com/machetebros with my brother.
I have a wife, a two year old son, and a daughter due any day now. They are the most rewarding and challenging aspect of my life. Sometimes art seems silly compared to the complexity of family life.
I make art constantly. I am a graphic designer by trade, a musician and fine artist by necessity. My studio time is precious and some weeks, very rare. I don't operate on idealism, but rather a solid work ethic. To idealize being an 'artist' would be a waste of time and mean an end to my practice. I don't wait for inspiration. I make art period. Inspiration comes and goes. Some times I have three straight hours to work, more often I get a half hour here, and 10 minutes there. When my duties as a father and husband call I decide not to be bitter. I just work harder when I have time. I don't consider myself an artist.
I simply make art.
