We had the good fortune of connecting with Eldar Gorak and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Eldar, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
The affirmation “as long as you take a step forward today, you will be better than you were yesterday” conveys a positive and growth-oriented mindset. Facilitating a continuous improvement in every aspect of life because it is action oriented. Pushing a positive perspective that change requires deliberate action and constant effort. Embracing the progress that is “Life” and that small step you take today can mean a much brighter future. But it really allows me to reflect and be more self aware for personal development as I learn from my daily experiences.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
In my artistic journey, what sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to quality and an acute eye for detail. I take immense pride in the meticulousness I bring to my work, a trait that has become a hallmark of my artistic expression.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a journey of passion, persistence, and overcoming challenges. It wasn’t an easy path, but every obstacle became an opportunity for growth. The dedication to the small details was not just about creating visually stunning pieces but about infusing each creation with a piece of my soul.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way is the importance of staying true to my artistic vision, especially when faced with skepticism or doubt about the significance of those small details. Dealing with people who may not understand the validity or importance of these nuances has been a challenge. However, I’ve found that by staying true to myself and what matters to me, I not only overcame negativity but thrived in those environments of doubt.

It’s essential for the world to know that my art is not just about what meets the eye; it’s a reflection of my dedication, passion, and a journey of self-discovery. Each piece tells a story, not just in its broader strokes but in the intricacies that may go unnoticed. I invite others to explore the depths of my work, appreciating the significance of every detail that contributes to the whole.

My brand and story are woven with resilience, creativity, and an unyielding commitment to the craft. I hope that through my art, I can inspire others to pay attention to the small details in their own lives. Not meaning that the small details have to be perfect, but recognizing the beauty and importance that can often be overlooked. In the end, it’s the dedication to these details that has set me apart and fueled my artistic journey.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Welcome to Nashville Morning: Start your day with breakfast Brunch at a glitz Presents event in the city curated by Vidalia Anne Gentry and Cya Inhale.
Afternoon: Explore the Frist Art Museum, showcasing a diverse range of visual arts.
Evening: Head to Midtown/broadway the heart of Nashville’s LGBTQIA+ scene. Enjoy dinner at Ichigo Ichi a fine Japanese sushi Experience. Focusing on consistent quality and freshness that you can taste.
Night: Experience the lively nightlife at many of the popular LGBTQIA+ curated events happening in spaces all around the city.

Day 2: Cultural Exploration
Morning: Grab brunch at Frothy Monkey in 12 South, a trendy neighborhood known for its boutiques and murals.
Afternoon: Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame for a deep dive into Nashville’s rich musical history.
Evening: Have dinner at Barcelona Wine Bar, a restaurant with a diverse menu inspired by global flavors.
Night: Check out Old Glory in Edgehill, with a relaxed atmosphere and live entertainment.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventure
Morning: Enjoy breakfast at Marché Artisan Foods in East Nashville.
Afternoon: Spend the day at Centennial Park, home to the iconic Parthenon replica.
Evening: Head to Midtown for dinner at Saint Añejo, offering Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.
Night: Experience the inclusive atmosphere at The Basement East, a popular live music venue.

Day 4: Music City Icons
Morning: Start your day with breakfast at Loveless Cafe, a Nashville institution known for its Southern comfort food.
Afternoon: Explore the iconic Grand Ole Opry and take a backstage tour.
Evening: Dine at The Catbird Seat for a unique, high-end culinary experience.
Night: Catch a live drag show at City Winery, a venue that combines music, food, and wine

Day 5: Historic Nashville
Morning: Grab breakfast at Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant in downtown Nashville.
Afternoon: Visit the historic RCA Studio B, where legends like Elvis Presley recorded.
Evening: Dinner at Butchertown Hall, a barbecue spot with a diverse menu.
Night: Experience the LGBTQIA+ scene in East Nashville at Canvas lounge, a popular dance/lounge bar.

Day 6: Riverfront and Entertainment
Morning: Enjoy breakfast at ruby slipper &ruby Sunshine a prominent brunch space with heart filling chicken.
Afternoon: Explore the Riverfront Park and take a stroll along the Cumberland River.
Evening: Dine at Acme Feed & Seed, a multi-level venue with live music and Southern cuisine and a great drag bingo hosted by my lovely angel Vivica Steele.
Night: Round off the day with dancing and karaoke at five points diner hosted by Cordelia facade. In friendly LGBTQIA+ Five Points neighborhood.

Day 7: Farewell Brunch and Shopping
Morning: Have a farewell drag brunch at the commons club at the Virgin hotel in
Afternoon: Spend your last day shopping in the eclectic boutiques of Hillsboro Village.
Evening: Reflect on the week’s adventures over dinner at Henrietta Red and a finish with some drinks at the Lovely Golden Pony!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Simply said my Mother and Father, Sanela and Aris Gorak. Immigrants from Bosnia I Herzegovina in the early 2000’s. despite being immigrant parents who might not have initially understood my career path, but have consistently supported me even in the face of unfamiliarity and uncertainty. The deep commitment to my success gave me the resilience to do anything I ever wanted in this new country, Allowing me to face the world with confidence. being immigrant parents added cultural differences and challenges growing up differently than my parents. But throughout the years they eventually understood that me growing up differently was what they wanted. It showed me more than ever what open mindedness and willingness to adapt and learn to ensure my success and the success of our relationship even when they thought I wasn’t making the best choices for my life. They adapted and learned how to create a nurturing environment by embracing my journey. Which only propelled me further into my ambitions and goals.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gorak_eldar/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutTennessee is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.