Brett Cook: The Practice of Building Community

Many people view art as transformative in and of itself. But what about the process of making art? Can that not also be a tool for transformation? Brett Cook is a multi-disciplinary artist who uses storytelling to distill complex ideas and creative practices to transform the inner and outer worlds of being. He has taught at all academic levels and has used his pedagogical knowledge to leverage the transformational power of the relational aspect of art-making. In today’s episode, Brett shares his artistic journey, from drawing in the church at the age of two to having a legendary open studio in New York. We talk about how his community practice has transformed over the years, and we hear about how he views it now. As someone who has established himself in both the fine art and grassroots art worlds, Brett is passionate about flattening the hierarchies that stand in the way of so many artists’ success. He sheds light on the work he is doing as an administrator to bridge these divides and strengthen relationships to contribute to a more whole, healed world. As with any conversation with Brett, you will walk away full of inspiration and hope that a different future is possible. Tune in today!   Key Points From This Episode: Get to know Brett, his background, and his journey into the arts.  The decision Brett made to move to the East Coast after a life out West.  Details about Brett’s legendary Harlem studio, where so much happened.  The type of art Brett was making when he moved to New York.  What helped Brett understand the more progressive pedagogy he still uses today.  Why Brett’s space was so unique in a city like New York.  Hear more about Brett’s involved and evolved community process.  Sometimes, the process of making art is transformative.  The irony of having people who are disconnected from your message buying your work.  How Brett was able to establish himself in both the fine art and popular art worlds.  Insights into Brett’s self-portrait works and the impact they have had on his life.  Brett's realization that he had to be committed to his beliefs.  The internal tension artists face when they want to be commercially successful.   Insights into the work Brett has done around healing and why it is important to him.  How Brett came to work with Thich Nhat Hanh.  Brett’s role in the art world, now that he is working in administration.  The importance of aligning institutions with artists.  Why Brett is so committed to flattening established, embedded hierarchies.  Where you can find Brett online. For more information and photos, visit here: