We had the good fortune of connecting with Jacob Phillips and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jacob, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
“Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire” by Jennifer Lee is a quote that has pushed my through the struggles of being a successful artist and instructor. My passion is art and to share my creative knowledge with my students.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am an interdisciplinary sculptor in Denton, Texas and my work takes on the inspiration of organic natural forms that come from the earth such as cypress knees and seedpods. My personal journey of self-discovery as a gay man in the south informs my artistic research and practice. the work is a collective response to pride, personal relationships, self-identity, and community. With these sculptural forms, I create in pursuit of hope and comfort. The work immerses the viewer in an environment of self-reflection and wonder.

I got to where i’m at today with the idea of persistence. Everytime I felt like giving up, I would tell myself to keep pushing forward and that I get to do what I love for a living. It wasn’t easy at times while dealing with personal life issues, but telling myself to overcome and succeed was my number one goal. I have learned along the way that you should never give up on your dreams.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If you are visiting the DFW area, you should definitely check out local galleries and museums such as the Nasher Sculpture Museum, Liliana Bloch Gallery, Erin Cluley Gallery, The Kimbell Art Museum, and the Bishop Arts District just to name a few.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate this story to my mentors Alicia Eggert and Brooks Oliver for not giving up on me and my journey as an artist.

Website: jacobmphillips.com

Instagram: j.m.phillips

Image Credits
Provided by the Artist

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