"The process of creating art is liberating for every artist. I feel a profound sense of happiness in exploring and in watching my works reveal themselves, much like a musician would experience the joy of an improvised solo. Often, I lay down a few simple lines and then 'let go' and see where the journey leads me.

As far as meaning in my art, I have some ideas, and my titles may offer clues or a starting point. The works contain universal shapes, symbols, and motifs which everyone can identify. I invite the observer to invent stories and to make discoveries via their own associations. And, when someone says 'I see a...' or, 'this reminds me of...', then we've established a connection. And a new improvisation begins, this time, initiated by the observer.

For me, connecting and enabling the viewer to transcend from the mundane to the sublime touches upon the essential nature of art." — Ken Kenan

Web link to additional works by the artist: www.knjfa.com

“A sketch of Ken Kenan’s life should call attention to his birthplace, New Orleans, a city rich in history, diverse cultures and, significantly, the birthplace of jazz. Kenan’s early training in music continues to the present with his current study of electric bass and his performance of jazz and rock music. In fact, the title of the ink and watercolor series he began in 2000, “Improvisations,” makes clear that both the work methods and the visual results have intended parallels in music. Kenan’s art has been called intuitive, improvisational, whimsical, lyrical and rhythmic. Closer study reveals various degrees of formal order and overall harmony that utilize line, color and shape in ways that are immediately accessible and satisfying to viewers. Kenan’s use of symbols—alphabetical letters, asterisks, etc.—is sometimes unique, at other times recurring. The effect is intriguing and elusive.”

Ralph Holibaugh
Director of Library Services
Western Connecticut State University
Danbury, Connecticut