Press Release
John Kenney captures a colorful expression of the Bluffton State of Mind in “May River Magic,” the May featured artist exhibit at The Society of Bluffton Artists gallery in Old Town Bluffton. The oil painting exhibit will run May 1-28, with an opening reception from 5-7 p.m. May 6 at the gallery. The events are open to the public.
Kenney's work is characterized by a wide range of expression and bold use of color. Kennney was Influenced by ionic pop culture artist Andy Wahol, who was friends with Kenney's mentor, as well as the industrial cityscape of his native Pittsburgh. Kenney's skills utilizing light, tone, color and form were refined by his studies with Rick Weaver in Charlottesville, Virginia. Kenney works in oil and focuses on figure, still life and the everyday.
“Art allows you to look at the world around us differently,” said Kenney. “The relationship between shape, line, color and tone come to life and are constantly changed by light. My oil paintings are about the manipulation of light and geometric shapes. The direction and intensity of light controls the image and the texture.”
Oil painting is about the manipulation of light and geometric shapes. Kenney strives to create a mood for the viewer, whether as an abstraction or as modern impressionism. His works are in private collections throughout the Southeast and Midwest He is an award-winning artist and exhibits in Virginia and South Carolina. He and his wife currently reside in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. Kenney was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1950 and discovered his interest in painting while attending Washington & Jefferson College.
About The Society of Bluffton Artists:
SOBA is the heart of the flourishing art hub in Old Town Bluffton's historic district at the corner of Church and Calhoun streets. As a non-profit art organization, SOBA offers regular art classes, featured artist shows, exhibitions, scholarships, outreach programs and more. The gallery is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sundays. Please visit www.sobagallery.com for a complete calendar of events and other information or call 843-757-6586.
