Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Hicks.
Courtney, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I went to Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia, where I studied Fine Arts and Illustration. I moved to Atlanta in order to start working as an Illustrator for the animation studio, Floyd County Productions. My husband, Chris Alvarez, and I work together at the animation studio, and in our own time, we both paint murals and street art with the art collective, “The lotus Eaters Club”.
Has it been a smooth road?
I think the main issue you’re going to confront consistently is your own self-doubt. I think that all artists have moments where you think “Am I actually any good at this? Is this going anywhere? Is there anything original about my work?” Obviously, it’s an old cliche, but you have to believe in yourself and always practice. Constantly make work that interests you before anyone else. You’re always going to have moments when you don’t feel inspired to make art or feel that you don’t have anything interesting to say, but it’s important to push forward. If you’re interested in what you create, you’ll find others who are, too. Always post your artwork, even if you don’t feel great about the piece (you are a much harsher critic of your own work). Your art will reach and resonate with people if given the opportunity!
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
Generally, my work consists of 2D illustrations. Lately, I’ve been making acrylic paintings on wood panel, usually featuring strong female figures. Art has helped me vent over issues of feminism and politics lately, which has been somewhat therapeutic. I’ve also been experimenting with text in my art lately. I like to bring in a single line of text, that isn’t terribly straightforward or obvious, requiring the observer to interact on a deeper level. As far as a project I’m proud of, my husband and I have been creating a weekly Sunday comic for over a year now. It’s called Foxyswine and follows the two of us in our adventures. I’m mainly very proud that we’ve managed to post consistently for so long!
What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership in your industry or generally?
Although gender politics affect every aspect of our society, I feel that the art field can be a more level playing field than most. If you’re being hired for a commission or project, generally people only care about your artwork rather than your gender. As an artist, you are the natural leader of your own work, so you are free to pursue the monetization of your artwork. Obviously, there are exceptions to this, and if you work in an office or studio, you can still face the same barriers to upward mobility as in any other industry. Sexism is pervasive throughout our society, and while I’ve always found the Atlanta art scene to be wonderfully inclusive, further growth can be achieved by women speaking up and standing up for each other.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.courtneyhicksillustration.com
- Email: courtney.e.hicks@gmail.com
- Instagram: @courtney.e.hicks
Image Credit:
All photos were taken by Courtney Hicks
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