The Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC) will host a solo exhibit featuring the work of artist Kevin Kelly entitled The Opposite of Breaking News. The show will run July 3 through August 1 at the SMAC Art Center, 7 Downing Street, in historic Hollister, MO.
Kevin Kelly is a fine art painter from Wichita, Kansas. He teaches drawing and painting at Butler Community College in El Dorado, Kansas. Kelly received a Bachelor of Art Education degree and a Master of Fine Arts degree in painting from Wichita State University.
The work in this exhibit reflects the quiet imagery of abandoned or discarded objects that may initially seem ordinary or even mundane but through Kelly’s paintings become fascinating observations on society. The exhibit features both large and small scale acrylic paintings, most following traditional formatting with some using a more experimental format.
Lonely shopping carts, falling street signs, and decrepit buildings are among the commonplace subjects of Kelly’s work. Ubiquitous scenes from everyday life become beautiful contemplative escapes from society's constant barrage of information. “What we know about our society is revealed by what we leave behind,” said Kelly. “We sometimes need the perspective of an outsider looking in. Let’s take a break from the ‘news’ to discover something new about ourselves.”
The intriguing interaction between vibrant and subdued color brings energy and vitality to Kelly’s work, pulling the viewer into each painting. “Color is dynamic. It can be manipulated for effect or dissected into individual components to create a feeling or perception.”
The opening reception will be on Friday evening, July 3, from 6-9 p.m. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. During the reception, Kelly will speak about his art and answer questions. Attendees may view the exhibit, tour the private studios, and enjoy complimentary refreshments. Vintage Paris Coffee kiosk will also be on site.
Each month during their exhibits, SMAC highlights one of the many local non-profit organizations that serve the area. This month SMAC is drawing attention to Branson Humane Society whose mission is to aid in the alleviation of distress and suffering of animals, and promote their humane treatment through protection, placement, and public education. Branson Humane Society operates an adoption center and two thrift stores. bransonhumanesociety.com
Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC), a 501C3 non-profit local center of creativity, art education, innovation, and community partnership, strives to improve the quality of life in southern Missouri by connecting individuals with the arts, for the benefit of all.