Aimee Coker shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Aimee, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Who are you learning from right now?
I’m a student of history. I’m currently working my way through GWF Hegel’s “Philosophy of Fine Art” and Kandinsky’s “Concerning the Spiritual in Art.” I think it’s important to learn from people in your craft who have come before you, in order to work more efficiently, but also to recontextualize techniques and reinterpret antiquated themes through modern lenses.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m an acrylic portrait artist who seeks to express emotional discomfort and hard to articulate feelings through imagery instead of words. I am currently working on a series of paintings that will form a cohesive collection. It features mechanized versions of Christian saints and martyrs, highlighting the absurdity of the marriage between the US war machine and right wing Christian nationalists.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
One of my parents once told me I could never be an artist. This was the worst lie for me to believe. I often wonder how my life would’ve been shaped differently had I heard the opposite message. I now know it’s not only possible to be a professional artist, it’s also one of the most fulfilling jobs I’ve ever had.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
How to be resourceful! I’ve learned through the years how to make do with much or with little. I’ve learned to use what I have at my disposal to make my life as good as it could be. I have long admired artists such as Rembrandt van Rijn, who have been able to make a buck using whatever creative skill they have, and haven’t limited themselves to just one art form.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Authenticity is everything. I will always be exactly who I am, say exactly what I feel.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If immortality were real, what would you build?
An art school to teach children early about art techniques and art history. I think the next generation of artists is going to communicate something special, since they’ll have access to technologies we don’t.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.aimeecoker.com
- Instagram: _mylimasis__
