DYLI | Grey Goblins
goblintown was always meant to grow beyond me. Just within the Truth Arts team and the expanded community, the ideas that proliferate daily take our beloved town to places I would have never dreamed of on my own. Still, the humble gob retains a deeply personal significance for me. The original characters manifested themselves during a really difficult time in my life. As my life has changed—my relationships shifted, my children have grown older—my view of myself, my worth, my work, and how it all connects is continually in flux. In short, my inner goblin is always adjusting. I started drawing goblins in ink as a way to disconnect from the project that now carries so much of its own weight. It allowed me to keep exploring the form of this weird and somewhat timeless character—and, most importantly, to create an intimate bond with collectors and fans. I think there’s something really special about having a physical piece of art from an artist you appreciate or a subject you love. Even more exciting for me is when someone’s introduction to my work—or to goblintown—is a small conversation and the gift of a bit of ink on paper. goblintown started as an art experiment with a few friends, and this series is one small way I get to stay connected to that. I’ve now drawn and given away over 300 physical goblin pieces—some in ink, some watercolor, some paint. I usually cap the drawings (aside from the painted gobs) at about a minute apiece. This forces me to be automatic with the process—to let an accumulation of many years of creative struggle simply happen to the page. I’m continuously trying to use as few lines as possible to express the gesture of the character. The weight… the emotion… the expression. These are all micro self-portraits—not just capturing me, but me in a specific minute of my life. I’m excited to do this first Fair Drop on DYLI, as there are so many incredible goblins I’ve yet to meet—and a chance to give a physical piece in person. In keeping with the original intent, each piece will remain free, aside from the minimal cost to join the Fair Drop raffle. Thank you for being a part of my goblin journey.