Meet Nate Mahoney | Artist
We had the good fortune of connecting with Nate Mahoney and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Nate, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
“Do the best you can with what you know, and when you know better, do better”
Attributed to Maya Angelou, a renowned poet and civil rights activist, this quote encapsulates the essence of continuous learning and self-improvement. It serves as a gentle reminder that we are all constantly evolving beings, with evolving knowledge and perspectives.
By acknowledging that we can only act based on what we currently know, the quote encourages us to make the best choices possible in each given moment. It recognizes the inherent limitations of our understanding and experiences, urging us not to be too hard on ourselves when faced with challenges or mistakes. However, it also emphasizes the importance of growth and progress. When new insights, information, or perspectives come our way, the quote urges us to embrace them and use them as stepping stones for improvement. It inspires a sense of responsibility, encouraging us to continually seek knowledge, challenge our assumptions, and strive for better actions and outcomes in the future. In essence, this quote by Maya Angelou emphasizes the transformative power of knowledge, the resilience of the human spirit, and the potential for personal evolution and positive change.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I create artwork inspired by dualities. Design and Art. Video and Still Photography. Nature and Urban. The work is centered on compassion for others trying to survive in our complex and inhospitable world. As a queer artist and urban dweller, I react to the city with inspired work that communicates connections between people, time, nature, place, and space.
My art practice delves into dualities between urban and rural, art and design, moving images and still photography to create a variety of work. My work often result from a research practice and collaborative process.
I received a MFA in Design from California College of the Arts, a MFA in Cinema and Photography from Southern Illinois University, and a BA in Liberal Arts from The Evergreen State College.
I’m also the founder of TheUrbanistSF.com and regularly host pop up events in collaboration with Larkin Street Youth, Sunday Streets, and donate a part of all sales to Larkin Street Youth Services.
I live and work in downtown San Francisco, California.
As an artist navigating San Francisco’s art scene, I face the harsh realities of American capitalism. The exorbitant cost of living and the relentless pursuit of profit pose significant hurdles to establishing a sustainable career. The pressure to conform to market trends can stifle my artistic freedom. It’s an uphill battle to find recognition and financial stability within a system that prioritizes commercial viability over artistic integrity.
However, it is within the warm embrace of San Francisco’s creative queer community that I find solace and inspiration. Here, I feel safe and supported, surrounded by individuals who understand the struggles and triumphs of marginalized artists. San Francisco is a city that empowers me to be true to myself, unleashing a wellspring of creativity and a sense of belonging that fuels my artistic journey despite the challenges posed by capitalism.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’ve hosted a walking tour in the Mission district of San Francisco before and these are the places I recommend to check out. You can start at the original Philz coffee on 24th street and end at the famous gold fire hydrant at Dolores park for a fascinating walk through the history and fascinating culture of SF.
Colpa Press – Luca Antonucci
https://youtu.be/wR3PSISQy5o
Birite Market
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bi-Rite_Market
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shoutout to my mom who is a retired art teacher and my high school art teacher who both encouraged me from a young age to pursue a career as an artist.
Having an encouraging high school art teacher and a mother who was an art teacher has been incredibly helpful for my artistic journey. Their combined expertise and knowledge have provided me with valuable insights, technical skills, and artistic techniques. They have served as mentors, offering constant guidance, constructive feedback, and encouragement, which has been instrumental in honing my skills and developing my artistic style.
Their unwavering support and understanding have created a nurturing environment for my creative pursuits. Their perspectives, shaped by their experiences in both school and home settings, have broadened my horizons and inspired me to explore different artistic paths.
Overall, their presence has been an invaluable asset, shaping me as an artist and giving me the confidence to navigate the art world with passion and determination.
Website: natemahoney.com
Instagram: @natemahoney
Linkedin: /mahoneynate
Twitter: @natemahoney
Facebook: natemahoney
Youtube: natemahoney
Other: nate@natemahoney.com
Image Credits
Nate Mahoney
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