STATEMENT

As a Black male interdisciplinary artist raised in the serene embrace of Rural North Carolina, I embark on a creative journey that harmonizes my dual identity as both an artistic visionary and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. My artistic endeavors serve as a resonant amalgamation of these two worlds, as I draw deeply from my professional insights to craft pieces that resonate with profound themes of mental health and parenting.

Using a rich tapestry of oil, acrylic, charcoal graphite, and an array of mediums, I fashion my canvases into portals that delve into the intricate complexities of the human psyche. Each stroke and texture mirrors the intricate layers of emotions and experiences that define our lives. Through my creations, I aim to break down the stigma surrounding mental health, inviting viewers into a shared space of understanding and empathy.

The visual narratives I weave speak of the struggles and triumphs, the shadows and the light that shape our emotional landscapes. In a society often hushed about its vulnerabilities, my art shouts courageously, unearthing buried truths and fostering a profound sense of catharsis. It is an invitation for introspection, a mirror to reflect upon our own journeys.

Being intimately familiar with the dynamics of both mental health and parenthood, I aspire to spark dialogues that have remained dormant for far too long. My art becomes a bridge, connecting personal stories to universal truths, and inviting discourse on subjects that are pivotal yet seldom discussed openly.

In essence, my artistic expression is an homage to the transformative potency of creativity. It serves as a testament to the intricate relationship between the human mind and the artistic process, and how they can come together to mend, uplift, and inspire. My journey as an artist is an odyssey of personal growth intertwined with a broader societal narrative—one brushstroke at a time.

 

ABOUT LAMAR WHIDBEE

Lamar Whidbee, born and raised in the town of Hertford, North Carolina, embarked on a unique journey that evolved from a collegiate football career to the world of visual art. After receiving a football scholarship at Winston-Salem State University and transferring to North Carolina Central University, his path took an artistic turn.

During his undergraduate years, Lamar found mentorship under Dr. Beverly McIver, igniting his passion for art. His academic pursuits led to an MFA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a License in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from North Carolina State University.

As an artist and educator, Lamar shared his insights in middle schools and colleges. Beyond his professional life, he’s a husband of ten years and a father of two.

Lamar channels his creative energy into art that explores mental health and parenting, employing mediums like oil, acrylic, charcoal, and graphite to convey the depth of human emotions.

Today, Lamar Whidbee approaches the contemporary art scene, using his craft to spark conversations on mental health and parenting, offering profound insights into the human experience.