About Ari Eastman

Ari Eastman is an interdisciplinary artist whose work explores identity's physical and digital experiences as expressed through the human form. Eastman uses distinctive iconography and visual iterations to blend elements of popular culture, design, technology, fine arts, and community impact, bridging the gap between diverse artistic expressions and facilitating meaningful dialogues.

Born in 2004 in Louisville, Kentucky, Eastman has lived a mobile lifestyle, spending formative years navigating the cultural landscapes of Louisville and Cincinnati, Ohio. This dynamic upbringing has significantly shaped Eastman’s artistry. Growing up in a complex family environment provided exposure to a rich curiosity, highlighting the intersections of art, education, and the vibrant narratives of popular culture. These early experiences nurtured a passion for creativity, journalistic practice, and activism, leading Eastman to establish a unique practice in artistry and communication.

A central tenet of Eastman's philosophy is the concept of "visual voice," which signifies a multifaceted creative output that amplifies and articulates the diverse experiences of marginalized communities, instead of merely speaking for them. By transforming everyday observations and lived experiences into various forms of art—from drawing, digital graphics, and photography to sculpture, installation, and social media engagement—Eastman seeks to amplify these voices and foster understanding through their work.

Raised in a household of contrasting experiences—one parent serving as a community-advocating teacher and the other as a traditional artist and tattooist—Eastman faced a unique blend of socioeconomic circumstances and political discourse. This exposure sparked a passion for advocacy, compelling them to navigate the challenges of prejudice and bigotry while forming a profound commitment to social justice. These formative experiences motivated Eastman to pursue journalism and communication, utilizing art to elevate diverse perspectives. Their advocacy includes various organizing efforts, such as Palestinian rights and queer culture, engaging in critical discussions around diversity, equity, inclusion, and prejudice within the global landscape.

Variation and iteration are key features of Eastman’s work, reflecting a commitment to contemporary multimedia practices and the influences of consumer culture. This foundational belief informs Eastman’s understanding of identity as fluid and expansive, especially in the digital age. A notable piece, "My Body Is Not My Body," exemplifies this concept by drawing inspiration from contemporary communication platforms like video games, graphic novels, and design aesthetics. This work consists of a physical sculpture made from cloth, nails, and fabric, which is then reimagined through various digital designs and zine prints. Through this piece, Eastman communicates themes of gender identity and adaptability, engaging varied audiences and reinforcing that identity transcends physicality.

As Eastman’s artistry has evolved, their perspective on identity within the larger queer community has developed as well. Through experiences with gender dysphoria and discussions regarding the body, sexuality, and sex, they have engaged in an in-depth exploration of self. Identifying as male at birth, Eastman navigated feelings of discomfort with their body from a young age, both internally and externally. They explore trans ideology and the process of transitioning, using their artistry as a means to engage in dialogue about their identity and to educate and learn from others.

Eastman fosters dialogue and advocates for community voices through art and visual culture. As an active participant in Louisville's arts scene and community-led activism, Eastman aims to share their experiences as artists and lifelong students. Their work has garnered recognition, including the Honors Scholar Award from Bellarmine University, the "Love Always Wins" Jason Noble Award, and involvement in the TED Democracy Project. Recent collaborations involve significant engagements with TEDx, SJP (Louisville Student Justice for Palestine), and creative partnerships with musicians and artists such as Popat and Sink Grrrl, resulting in diverse ongoing projects and exhibitions.

As Eastman continues its artistic journey, it remains focused on expanding its voice while amplifying the narratives and experiences of others, enriching the contemporary art community, and advancing future dialogues.