Average lived with HIV/Aids for 40 years |
It is sad to find out that LGBTQ+ artist Joe Average died on Christmas Eve. He was 67 years old.
His art was whimsical and colourful |
But mostly Average was a symbol of surviving HIV/AIDS. He was HIV-positive at the age of 27, which motivated him to become an artist and advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and LGBTQ+ rights.
"He had Aids for 40 years and he maintained his healthy attitude by being creative," said Michael Harding, a longtime friend. "Creativity is what kept him alive, and the love of the community."
This was evident in him donating artwork to many charitable causes.
Average's artwork made it onto a Canadian stamp, and on a loonie designed for the Royal Canadian Mint.
In 2021 he was appointed to the Order of British Columbia, and last year the Order of Canada.
Vancouver is so lucky to have such a talented and giving artist who did so much for the city and its residents through his art.
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