Gilbert White Jr.
Artist, Diné (Navajo), clans: Tódich'ii'nii & Ta'neeszahnii
Artist Statement
My artwork is an attempt to perpetuate the creative process of the universe, transform
consciousness and culture through visual epiphanies, and communicate profound concepts. I think of humans as the universe embodied, our ancestors reincarnated, and I feel that creating is an expression of nature’s divine instincts. In my creative process I engage in introspective exploration of my imagination and identity, while also discovering new ways of perceiving the external world. I start each project by focusing on a concept or theme that I desire to communicate, brainstorm iconography that represents this concept, then spontaneously develop and weave together these ideas into a harmonious composition with contrasting color and significant symbolism. The result is artwork that can be described as surreal, psychedelic, and dream-like. I tend to use pattern and repetition, radial balance, and spirals because these components are symbols of existence understood by many cultures, but especially prevalent in my ancestors’ traditional Navajo designs. Ultimately, the art I make is an expression of my unique self and singular perspective. I do my best to master the language of visual art to communicate abstract thoughts that come from within the deepest depths of my imagination.
Biography
Gilbert J. White Jr. lives and works in Albuquerque, NM. He studied Business and Entrepreneurship at the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA). One of his most profound experiences was joining Meow Wolf’s Artistic Development and Production team as an intern for the summer of 2021. Gilbert is most notable for his work on community murals including a collaborative mural at the University of Rochester, a solo STEAM lab mural at Volcano Vista High school, a collaborative mural in Downtown Albuquerque for the Paint for Peace Community Revitalization Project, a solo mural for the NM Love Paint Contest, and a mural for Meow Wolf’s ‘House of Eternal Return’ in Santa Fe, NM. Gilbert is also a designer who works on commissions from businesses, organizations, and individuals, utilizing a variety of mediums including acrylic, airbrush, photoshop, ink and spray paint. Gilbert is an emerging artist, hard-working scholar, and passionate entrepreneur pursuing a professional career in the artworld.
Photography by: @desertsolitaire, @jc.thephotographer, @andrea_selfridge on Instagram