David Eckard, an influential artist known for his unique blend of performance and crafted objects, passed away on April 16, 2025, from cancer. Surrounded by loved ones, he left a legacy of love and creativity. Born in 1964 in Iowa, David's upbringing on a farm influenced his pragmatic approach to art. His works often addressed themes of queerness and identity, rooted in his experiences during the AIDS epidemic. Noteworthy pieces included performances at the Portland Institute for Contemporary Art, where he combined grace and strength in thought-provoking presentations.
David's work always contained some combination of grace, the grotesque, strength and tenderness, reflecting his authentic voice and experiences throughout his artistic journey.
His earliest works arose from Queer protest groups during the AIDS epidemic, blending poetry, political action, and bodily identity into impactful statements.
David was an innovative and influential artist, combining beautifully crafted objects with performance, where he imitated no one else and created unique works.
Float for TBA had him floating on the Willamette River through Portland perched on a huge metal buoy, reciting a poetic monologue surrounded by kayakers.
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