April Artist Spotlight Chicken Lips, David H. Everett

By Kathie Scrimgeour

As far back as David Everett can remember, he always had to have his hands in something—whether it was Play-Doh or finger paints, he has always felt a need to create. Over the years, he has worked in many different mediums, including watercolors, acrylics, quilt making, and soft sculpture. However, it wasn't until he started working with air-dry clays that he truly felt "at home!"

His true love is Halloween and all things spooky. He sold his first creations in the fall of 2001 at a local California craft show, where he was overwhelmed by the enthusiasm for his pieces and thrilled to see that others shared his passion for Halloween. For nearly 25 years, David has been creating seasonal art, with his Halloween and spooky-themed pieces being his biggest sellers. He wants the world to know that Halloween is not just a holiday—it’s a lifestyle.

Chicken Lips? Where did that come from? “I’ve always loved the expression, as useful as lips on a chicken! It’s a whimsical name that I believe matches the silliness of my creations and it’s a name people never forget!

Q&A

Q: How do you stay motivated and find inspiration, especially during creative blocks?

A: When the creative well runs dry, I look to the things that give me inspiration….the obvious choice is scary movies and creepy things. But, I get a lot of inspiration from just sitting in the desert and cleaning my head. Visiting local galleries and shops helps as well….and a trip to the Mini Time Machine of Miniatures is always great for a creative “pick me up."

The Witch by David Everett.

Q: What is the greatest reward of your work?

A: Having collectors who are passionate about my creations means the world to me. I have collectors all across the United States that have been purchasing from me since I first started selling my work almost 25 years ago. It is so rewarding knowing that there is a tribe of like-minded folks who appreciate my slightly twisted vision.

Q: Any final thoughts you would like to share with our readers? It is April Fool's Day after all....

A: As an artist, you’ve got to follow your heart and create what makes YOU happy. Don’t worry about appealing to the masses. When you make art with passion, the customers will follow. And that’s no lie ;)

David joined SAAG immediately after moving to Tucson three years ago. Having previously lived in a cultural desert in Southern California, he was overjoyed to discover Tucson's vibrant arts community. He was even more thrilled to find the SAAG gallery less than five minutes from his home.

See more of his work at:
www.chickenlips.biz
@chickenlips_davideverett (Instagram)