We had the good fortune of connecting with David Gary Lloyd and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi David Gary, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I consider myself a calculated risk taker. To achieve big dreams and goals, taking risks is often necessary. I approach decision-making with the mindset, “If I looked back and didn’t make that leap, would I regret it?” I prefer taking risks and potentially not reaping the rewards over living a life filled with regret.
Being an artist is inherently risky. Unlike more traditional careers, it requires carving out a path in a highly competitive field. Establishing structure and financial stability is a unique process for each artist. I’ve had to remind myself that being an artist is a lifelong commitment, which helps me navigate the inevitable rejections. Despite choosing an unconventional career, I trust in the value of taking leaps of faith.
I’ve always connected with the phrase “The best person you can invest in is yourself.”
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Lately I’m most proud of my documentary work. However my passion is working in my photo studio, with lights, creating very stylized fine art images. Through working in documentary and the studio, I’ve found a way to incorporate elements of both real life and heightened elements to tell
stories. Being a gay man I’m obviously very invested in stories of acceptance and resilience of the LGBTQ+ Journey.
I draw inspiration from members of my community, their environments, and the elements that shape them.
In addition to photography I like to work in more sculptural mediums. The tactile way of creating feels more experimental to me and exciting. My background is heavy creating things with digital technology, so it’s nice to expand my work into other mediums.
I’m incredibly excited about this stage in my career. I’ve been producing a significant body of work that I am truly proud of. Seeing my ideas come to life and resonate with an audience is an incredible feeling. I look forward to sharing more with everyone.
One of my sculptures and some photography are currently on view at the Coral Gables Museum for the exhibition “Visions From Inside These Walls.”
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.
Living in South Florida brings many visitors to our doorstep, and I love exploring nature with them. Here are a couple of my favorite spots:
One hidden gem I always recommend is the Quiet Garden on Key Biscayne, right next to Crandon Park. This beautifully restored park, which used to be a zoo, features trails with ponds and a variety of tropical bird species, including many free-roaming peacocks.
Another favorite of mine is Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. With various events throughout the year, such as the Mango Festival and the Orchid Festival, it’s a fantastic place to experience our lush flora and fauna. The Butterfly Aviary, in particular, is a magical spot to stroll through and connect with nature and small creatures.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, Shark Valley in the Everglades offers a fantastic 15-mile bike loop that immerses you in the wetlands’ unique ecology. You can rent bikes and ride to the observation tower at the halfway point, which provides the best view of the Everglades. The journey is definitely worth the sweat!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are too many people to list, but I am incredibly grateful for my SCAD (Savannah College of Art & Design) family. Attending art school and developing my creative side alongside other quirky and creative individuals had a lasting impact on my life. During those five years, I underwent a beautiful transition in my creativity, broke out of my bubble, and came out as gay.
That period of my life was unique and transformative. I felt validated to reveal my authentic self, even if it was in layers. The memories, both good and bad, forever changed me and set the course for my future.
I also owe a great deal to my sister, who is the reason I picked up a camera in the first place. As my older sibling, she was taking a photography class, and I thought, “Hey, let me try that.” I haven’t put the camera down since. Looking back, my life truly began to take shape when I picked up that camera 20 years ago. Since then the camera has been like an extension of myself, and I am forever grateful to those who have contributed to this part of me. Making this happen?
My parents and my husband Santiago have given me the courage and support to tell stories, and the motivation to keep pursuing my dreams. I am incredibly fortunate to have such a supportive network here in Miami and beyond and I never take it for granted.
Website: https://www.davidgarylloyd.com
Instagram: @DavidGaryLloyd
Other: Check out the current Museum exhibition I’m included in!
“Visions From Inside The Walls: Coral Gables Artists Today”
Coral Gables Museum
On View: May 25 – Oct 26th 2024
Curated by Gabriela Fernández
Image Credits
Photography © David Gary Lloyd