Today we’d like to introduce you to John Gascot.
Hi John, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am an artist at as well as manage and curate Studios @ 5663 in the Pinellas Arts Village (5663 Park Blvd. Pinellas Park). In addition to managing 11 art studios, I run Diversity Arts Inc, a nonprofit which aims to support underserved youth and communities by providing safe environments, materials, and guidance for self-discovery, expression, and sociocultural interaction. All of our workshops are free to the community. The Pinellas Arts Village consists of 4 gallery venues spread across the 5600-5800 blocks along Park Boulevard N. On the 4th Saturday of each month, we host a Block pARTy at which we host vendors of handcrafted goods, food trucks, and music. Diversity Arts also hosts a monthly LGBTQ (allies welcome) Social and Pride @ the Village, Pinellas Park first-ever Pride festival, now going on its second year.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As with any new endeavor, establishing a new arts district and the first-ever Pride festival in the City of Pinellas Park were not without their share of obstacles. Creating a successful arts district where there formerly was none is a challenge in and of itself. Place-making and wayfinding as well as making the community and adjacent communities aware of our Prescence are all challenges. Organizing Pride @ the Village also took much convincing and problem-solving. Assuring government and community that such an event would be well-run and shine a positive light on a community which had never experienced such an event was something we had to work hard and diligently on. We are very grateful for a City Council who has been supportive of our efforts and allowed our Arts Village to show its skills and potential.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Latino Caribbean-born visual artist (painter). I am most known for my signature style which I have named “Latinpop”. It combines elements of Folk, Pop, and Cubist arts with global influences. My work aims to be accessible and promote diversity. I am proudest of the work we achieve through Diversity Arts as our nonprofit grows into its next phase.
I think my very individual sense of self-expression is what sets me apart from others.
What matters most to you?
Diversity and evening the playing field for those underrepresented and underserved matters to me most. As an LGBTQ+ Latino creative individual, I have experienced my share of obstacles, judgment, and even rejection. I’d like to do whatever is within my power to prevent that from happening to others and to uplift those who have already experienced it.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.gascot.com www.diversityartsinc.com
- Instagram: @jgascot
- Facebook: @gascot
- Twitter: @latinpop
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/popartguy
- Other: www.pinellasartsvillage.com
Image Credits
Frontproof Media
