Joe Average: A Life Well-Lived

Victoria-born artist Joe Average, renowned for his vibrant and award-winning artwork, tragically passed away at the age of 67 on December 24. His death has left an indelible mark on the art community and among advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and AIDS awareness.

According to siblings Mark Tebbutt and Karin Carson, Average died peacefully in his sleep, prompting an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from individuals in politics, arts, and social justice circles both within British Columbia and beyond. "It’s surreal to see how many lives he touched," Carson shared with the Times Colonist, reflecting on the impact her brother had on the world.

Early Life and Artistic Journey

Born as Brock David Tebbutt on October 10, 1957, in Victoria, Joe was the eldest son of an artist mother and an architect father. His passion for art blossomed at an early age, yet he faced immense challenges, including a difficult coming-out journey that led to him being kicked out of his family home at 17. Undeterred, Brock traveled from Montreal to San Francisco and New York, all the while nurturing his burgeoning artistic talent.

In the early 1980s, Average's work caught the eye of curator Michael Harding while he was visiting Victoria for the weekend. Harding’s appreciation for Average's unique style initiated a successful partnership that propelled Average's career as a celebrated graphic artist. His works spanned diverse mediums, from canvases and murals to coins and postage stamps, capturing the vibrant essence of his experiences and the world around him.

Facing Adversity with Art

Despite being diagnosed as HIV-positive at 27 and given little hope for a long life, Average turned adversity into motivation. He candidly expressed, "Art was the only thing that I was ever good at. I did not want to be on my deathbed wondering if I could have succeeded as an artist." And succeed he did—his artwork became synonymous with charity events and fundraisers, particularly those focusing on HIV/AIDS awareness.

Legacy and Honors

Joe Average received significant honors during his lifetime, including the prestigious Order of Canada and the Order of British Columbia for his contributions to the arts and humanitarian efforts. His art was not merely a personal expression; it became a voice for those who needed advocacy, and he was known for donating significant amounts of his work to various causes, often surpassing the revenue generated from sales.

Adapting to Health Challenges

As health challenges mounted, Average pivoted from painting to digital art to continue expressing his creativity. Friends remember him as genuinely humble, despite his fame, and deeply supportive of other artists.

Final Years and Lasting Messages

In his final years, Average maintained an active interest in the artistic community, inspiring those around him with simple yet powerful messages, one of which read “be kind to one another.” This phrase became a motto not only for his life but also a rallying cry during the COVID-19 pandemic as he participated in evening cheers to honor frontline workers.

A Tribute to Creativity

Following his passing, his family has temporarily halted the sale of his artwork, respecting his wish for no memorial service. However, his fourth-floor apartment remains a living tribute to his creativity, adorned with both his work and that of others, embodying his belief in the importance of art in all forms.

Carson reflected on the legacy her brother leaves behind: “He celebrated not just his own art, but everyone’s art. That’s how he would want to be remembered.” The art community and fans around the globe are mourning a unique soul whose influence will echo for years to come. Joe Average’s vibrant legacy will live on through kindness, creativity, and compassionate advocacy—a reminder for all to "be kind to one another."