About Gill
Gill’s path to becoming the artist and woman she is today has been nothing short of remarkable. For most of her life, she lived as Gilbert, a loving husband, devoted father of three, proud grandfather, and well-respected pillar of her community. She managed the family’s large scale pig farm, continuing a legacy passed down from her father. Gill appeared to be an ordinary man by all accounts: an avid cyclist, a businessman, and a dedicated church member who helped build the very institution that would later shun her. However, beneath the surface, Gill struggled with her gender identity.
In the fall of 2021, she made the courageous decision to embrace her truth and begin her transition, becoming the woman she had always felt herself to be. Since that day, this profound change was met with both personal liberation and significant challenges. Her church community, once a source of support reacted with resistance, leading to the loss of lifelong friendships and her leaving the church she had long been a part of.
Gill’s art is more than visual storytelling; it’s magic. It’s an alchemical process of turning pain, joy, and transformation into something that transcends the original materials. Her sculptures are inspiring and playful, with raw pieces of her heart poured into every creation.
Through these hardships, Gill found solace in art. Her sculptural creations became her voice, a way to communicate the complexity of her experiences and the empowerment of living authentically. Much of her work is deeply personal, transforming emotions she can’t put into words into tangible discovery and the beauty of embracing one’s true self. Other pieces are simply playful, designed to create joy and bring a smile to the viewer.
Today, Gill continues to redefine herself and her art, inspiring others to embrace their authentic selves. Through her work, she demonstrates the power of creativity to heal, connect, and transform both artist and audience.
Transformation is Alchemy
The word alchemy is not accidental. It means turning what’s been rejected into something radiant. I’ve been rejected as a trans person more often than I care to admit, which might be why I’m drawn to incorporating rejected items into my art. And not only to be part of my art, but the centerpiece of my art. To be celebrated in contrast to this world of blending in and not being unique because it seems safer. My art is one of the processes where I work on self improvement by letting my true self shine, as weird or disturbing as it might get.
How about a caterpillar with teeth for legs?
Letting my freak flag fly.
One sculpture at a time.
Where will Gill be next?
Follow her on Instagram for updates on her most recent and upcoming shows.
