In this episode of The Art Confidential, Jacqui and Andreina sit down with poet, writer, and visual artist David Gate for a conversation about creativity, care, and what art can make possible in difficult times. From poetry and mental health to friendship, truth-telling, and the role of artists in community, this one is thoughtful, honest, and deeply grounding. David shares his path from writing songs to becoming a widely loved poet whose work speaks to loneliness, sensitivity, masculinity, and hope. They talk about how Asheville shaped his life and work, why creativity became a form of self-care, and how art can help people feel less alone by showing them their own experiences reflected back. We talk about: How David moved from songwriting into poetry and found his voiceCreativity as care and its connection to mental healthWhy telling the truth is an act of rebellion for artistsMale sensitivity, emotional language, and naming what we feelThe role of sharing art and creating connection through your workPlus: baby goats, late-night writing, Burial Beer, and a poem that might make you cry. This episode is for artists, writers, parents, and anyone who needs a reminder that sensitivity is not weakness, it is strength. Mentioned in This Episode A Rebellion of Care: Poems and Essays by David Gate https://amzn.to/3OIvmxwLonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry https://amzn.to/41FcPVSThe Source of Self-Regard by Toni Morrison https://amzn.to/48aDltLDavid Gate website https://davidgatepoet.comDavid Gate Instagram https://www.instagram.com/davidgatepoet/David Gate Substack https://davidgate.substack.com/Burial Beer Co. https://burialbeer.com/Some links may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. About The Art Confidential The Art Confidential is a podcast about how the art world really works. Hosts Jacqui Fehl and Andreina Bates sit down with artists, gallery owners, consultants, and other insiders for candid conversations about building a creative life—from studio practice to sales, exhibitions, and the realities behind the scenes. Follow the show so you never miss an episode exploring the ideas, challenges, and opportunities shaping today’s art world. Connect with us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartconfidential Website: https://theartconfidential.com
