We recently connected with Tc Moore and have shared our conversation below.
TC , we are so deeply grateful to you for opening up about your journey with mental health in the hops that it can help someone who might be going through something similar. Can you talk to us about your mental health journey and how you overcame or persisted despite any issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
In reflecting on the past few years, it’s clear that many of us have faced significant challenges. Conversations with others reveal a shared experience of grappling with immense struggles, often all at once. Personally, this period has been particularly difficult for me. I’ve navigated the uncertainties of finding a new career, dealt with the loss of a significant partner, and faced the passing of a few close friends. It truly felt like I was hanging on by the skin of my teeth.
Through it all, I’ve made a concerted effort to prioritize my art practice, as well as my mental and physical health, while nurturing my friendships. I discovered that during my most challenging moments, the act of creating became my lifeline. Some of my most authentic and honest work emerged during this time, reflecting the raw emotions and experiences I was navigating. Art has been not just a form of expression, but a vital source of resilience and hope.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As a self-taught artist and musician based in Oakland, California, I have a unique journey that began in Alabama and was shaped by my upbringing in the Midwest. I’ve been a part of the vibrant Oakland/San Francisco area since 2007, but I’ve recently started spending more time in New Orleans, with plans to split my time between the two regions.
My work is deeply influenced by my fascination with people and the themes of identity and existentialism that define our lives. By blending abstract and figurative elements, I strive to create pieces that resonate on a subconscious level, inviting viewers to explore their own interpretations and foster a personal connection through color and texture.
Community involvement, emotional exploration, and the collection of images from life and memories are integral to my artistic process. Research also significantly shapes my work, allowing me to delve deeper into the concepts I wish to express.
I have a passion for experimenting with a variety of mediums, including acrylics, pastels, spray paint, oils, watercolors, and Akua Ink. Whether I’m working on canvas, paper, or found objects, I aim to weave these elements together to create art that is rich in texture and meaning. This approach enables my work to communicate complex ideas and emotions, engaging viewers in a profound dialogue.
The past year has been incredibly busy for me, with exhibitions in various galleries across San Francisco, Oakland, and Napa. Looking ahead, I plan to take the winter to prepare for some exciting events next year, including a show in Austin curated by Sariya at Evonne’s Art House, as well as participating in the Superfine Art Fair at Fort Mason, where I’ll be sharing a booth with my good friend and fellow artist Dylan Clendenin.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I genuinely believe that each person’s journey is one-of-a-kind, shaped by their unique experiences and perspectives. If you had asked me five years ago to pinpoint three skills I thought would be essential for the future, I can assure you I would have missed the mark entirely. Life has a funny way of surprising us, and those skills we think will be crucial often evolve as we grow and adapt.
Approaching life with an open mind and a commitment to what you love is key. When you dive into something wholeheartedly—whether it’s a specific art form, a project, or a personal goal—you can achieve incredible things. It’s all about immersing yourself in your passions and truly learning everything you can. That kind of engagement often leads to a deeper understanding and mastery of your craft.
But while pursuing your interests is vital, I also believe it’s equally important to stay adaptable. Being open to changing your perspective and recognizing that there are many paths to success is essential. Understanding how someone else might reach a similar destination through a different route can really enrich your own perspective and practice. It creates a sense of community and collaboration, reminding us that there’s always something new to learn from one another.
Ultimately, this blend of dedication, exploration, and openness can lead to a truly fulfilling and evolving artistic journey. Each experience we encounter, whether it’s a success or a setback, contributes to our growth as artists and individuals. Embracing that journey with all its twists and turns can lead to unexpected discoveries and profound transformations in both our work and our lives.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I’m really excited about the idea of collaborating with a diverse range of artists. Right now, my primary focus has been on painting, but I’ve also been experimenting a lot with Polaroids. I think it would be fascinating to find innovative ways to showcase these photographs alongside my paintings.
Ultimately, I envision creating a national collective of emerging artists. Starting with Oakland/SF and New Orleans. A supportive network where we can uplift each other and work together on exhibitions. It reminds me of the spirit of The Factory from back in the day, but with a fresh approach that emphasizes the art itself rather than the party scene.
I believe that by coming together, we can share resources, ideas, and inspiration. This collective would offer a platform for artists to connect, collaborate, and grow, making it easier to navigate the challenges of the art world. I’m passionate about fostering a space where creativity thrives, and I can’t wait to see how we can all contribute to this vision. I think the first step to this will be my partnership with fellow Bay Area artists Dylan Clendenin at next years Super Fine Art Fair at Fort Mason.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.christcmoore.com
- Instagram: @Tc_Moore_Art
Image Credits
Brandon Joseph Baker
Michael V
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
