South Florida LGBTQ+ Artists Find Healing in the Arts

Celebrate the LGBTQ+ artists and creators that are a part of the vibrant South Florida arts scene. We meet artists who share openly and honestly about the difference that art has made in their lives. From photography to drag, to musical performance to theatre, and the visual arts - these creatives are finding solace, solutions, and community through their work.
First, meet the musician known as The Tatted Violinist. Marcos Aycox brings a smile and enthusiastic energy to each performance. Marcos shares how the violin helped him to overcome a challenging upbringing. His journey to freedom and authenticity has led him to bringing joy to audiences with his violin. Besides music, Marcos has also found freedom of expression with tattoos as body art. Learn how the violin and music has become a powerful force for healing, and why Marcos says everyone should “be a unicorn."
Next, Dennis Dean welcomes us to a bustling event at Hotspots Art Gallery in Wilton Manors. As curator of this space, and in partnership with community organizations, Dennis hosts a curated selection of artwork that rotates monthly. Each month, visitors to the gallery are greeted with a variety of works created by local creatives. From paintings, to photography, to sculpture and mixed media, all can be found on display. At the start of each month, the gallery hosts an opening reception filled with music, fellowship and a rotating performance artist. Dennis is also a talented photographer who brings a creative take to the use of color in his work. Learn more about Dennis’ Pride photography series, and how art and the arts community have helped him on a journey towards healing.
Artist and arts advocate Niki Lopez has found the arts to be a path towards self-expression and healing, while also a tool for community dialogue. The artist welcomes us to her studio which is packed with colorful and contemplative works. Niki’s work has ranged from painting, sculpture, mixed media, performance, installation, and photography. In each form, she find an invitation to move towards healing. Niki has taken those experiences and offers the community the same chance to find healing in the arts with community arts workshops. What’s Your Elephant is an organization, founded by Niki, that aims to provoke conversation and point people towards art and the resources that they need to heal.
Take in a show with Zaylin Yates, director, actor, & Founding Managing Director of Brévo Theatre. Brévo Theatre was founded to challenge modern-day theatre while showcasing and developing local talent in unconventional performances. The company focuses on presenting thought-provoking works that also entertain audiences. Fostering young talent, on stage and off, is a focus. Hear how Zaylin has found theatre to be a place of freedom and confidence.
Finally, it’s time for a drag show! Drag artist and emcee, Amanda Austin, takes center stage at Lips in Ft. Lauderdale for a glitzy show all about fun and sparkle. She shares how the art of drag has been an avenue of self-expression and joy. Through the costumes, dancing, and humor it has become a creative outlet for her personality and soul. The escapism and showmanship of the performers is also a way for the audience to let loose and let their worries go. Take a peak backstage as the performers prepare, then join them on stage as they transform the space into a euphoric party.
Featuring:
Marcos Aycox
Learn more: www.thetattedviolinist.com/
Dennis Dean
Learn more: dennisdean.com/
/ dennisdeanimages
Niki Lopez
Learn more: nikiartstudio.com/
whatsyourelephant.org/
/ nikilopez19
Zaylin Yates
Learn more: brevotheatre.org/
Amanda Austin
Learn more: www.fladragshow.com/
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[00:00:00]: Introduction
[00:01:35]: Marcos Aycox, The Tatted Violinist
[00:05:47]: Dennis Dean, photographer & curator
[00:10:52]: Niki Lopez, artist & advocate
[00:16:32]: Zaylin Yates, director, actor, & Founding Managing Director of Brévo Theatre
[00:21:26]: Amanda Austin, drag artist & emcee
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