Aykeem Spivey: You Can't Handle the Truth/Mubarak

Artist statement

In my series, "Live with a Dog Complex," stories of my spontaneous interactions build the foundation for my artistic philosophy. I believe in unapologetically pursuing one's dreams with an unwavering drive and love for one’s craft. Dog Complex, a play on "God Complex," embodies this philosophy of a childlike mindset, being constantly open to learning and growing. The motto for Dog Complex is: "for artists and athletes alike." This captures the tireless work ethic shared by professionals in both fields. To perform at their level requires patience, taking care of the mind, body, and soul, and rejecting complacency.

Dog Complex as a mentality is demonstrated in my daily practices like meditation, sketching, playing, praying, reading, and physical activity. Remaining disciplined to these daily tasks has improved my creative process. This series of chance encounters, family, and friends is an exploration of how they have encouraged that mentality which has made me a better person and a better artist. Collectively, the people presented in the series embody the power of unconditional love, discipline, kindness, and the relentless pursuit of freedom.

Through this series I have been able to build more confidence in myself artistically and spiritually. This revival can be seen in symbols of spirituality, love, and mental fortitude; like the evil eye pendants, my Dog Complex tag, or third eye motifs. These symbols also reference my growing embrace for patience and passion in my journey through the canvas. Originally intended to be seven pieces long, I extended the series to twelve pieces which allowed me to exemplify my growing patience and curiosity.

These extensions include inspiration from Kehinde Wiley with beautiful pattern motifs, Jean Michael Basquiat with my hand built frames and repurposing recycled canvases, and Mattise as I use colors to story tell. Innovation through experimentation permitting me to work larger and with more patience. Along with mental fortitude, valuing patience in the process ensured that I gave each piece the time it deserved. Some pieces took a month to finish, while others required more time for details. For example, Dean and Kelsey, required ten months to complete. Flexibility with scale, surfaces, and patience contributes/is the foundation to the passionate mindset that defines what it means to live with a Dog Complex.

Ultimately, no matter your profession, pursuing your passion with love, patience, and an open mind can take you above and beyond the average. Spreading love and kindness like wildfire can open many doors to the power of more knowledge and deeper understanding of oneself and the world. With this series, I encourage a new vision of the world we live in today. A vision that reflects a world of endless opportunities to appreciate every moment we are blessed with. There’s already enough negativity in the world, from wars to hate crimes, to simple degradations on social media. In contrast, I emphasize the power of unconditional love, kindness and the relentless pursuit of freedom.