Last Chance to See “Textures of Life” Art Show

August 20, 2024

2 minutes read

**Please note, there has been a change in schedule and Textures of Life will now come down on August 22, 2024

Original Article
In a celebration of art-making, Marilyn Kennedy and her granddaughter Nicole Kennedy have come together for a unique exhibition. This exhibition spans from Marilyn’s earliest works to Nicole’s contemporary creations, providing a broad overview of art-making over the last half-century.

“As you circle the exhibition, you will find dates on the title cards or sometimes an explanation describing the art-making process or the particular class of art studied,” Marilyn explains. “I hope to give the viewer a broad overview of art-making through the last half-century.”

Marilyn’s journey as an artist is deeply rooted in her family and her lifelong passion for creativity. “I have had the good fortune to study with many talented artists and to exhibit alongside them,” she shares. “This show with my granddaughter Nicole Kennedy tops the good fortune list.”

The layout of the exhibition itself holds significant meaning. Marilyn’s work is displayed on the outer circle of the gallery, while Nicole’s pieces are showcased within that circle. “True to the exhibition’s title, ‘The Matrilineal Circle,’ this arrangement emphasizes the generational and familial connection at the heart of our artistic journey,” says Marilyn. “Family is an integral part of this exhibition.”

The exhibition draws inspiration from Marilyn’s adult married life and the family values they cherish. Nicole has contributed two interactive pieces, “The Wishing Tree” and the “Floating Flower Bouquet,” a painting, and pottery. “My vision is for everyone’s introspective, heartfelt wishes to come true through ‘The Wishing Tree,'” Nicole explains. “With the ‘Floating Flower Bouquet,’ she invites all to participate in the wonder and beauty of nature. These pieces are exciting and have been very well received.”

Marilyn’s part of the exhibition includes works created over six decades, showcasing her evolution as an artist. “My vision is to encourage others to make art and then to share and exhibit their art,” she says. “The Kerrobert Courtroom Gallery is a wonderful venue with a very helpful committee.”

Her earliest piece in this show dates back to a workshop in Kerrobert, where she was tasked with drawing a lantern and noting the effects of light and dark. “I was in my twenties and had been drawing all my life,” Marilyn recalls. “I continue to make art and have studied at the university level, attended off-campus workshops, and participated in life drawing sessions. All these experiences have greatly influenced my creative development in the fine arts. Art history classes are an amazing influence for artists. Observing the world around you is too. Visit galleries, keep an open mind, and carry a sketchbook because inspiration will appear.”

Marilyn’s diverse collection includes drawings, pottery, sculpture, lithographs, intaglio, woodcut, darkroom photography, and paintings. Nicole, having grown up surrounded by an abundance of creativity, reflects this influence in her significant contribution to the exhibition. “I continue to learn and make art,” Marilyn notes. “Nicole works for the United Way and honors her creative spirit.”

Marilyn can often be found at the Kerrobert Courtroom Gallery each Wednesday from 1-3 or later, with a fresh bouquet of flowers. “We hope you visit the gallery and enjoy our creativity,” she says, extending an invitation to all.

Together, Marilyn’s experience combined with Nicole’s fresh and interactive approach promises an engaging and inspiring exhibition for visitors of all ages.

Marilyn and Nicole’s exhibit will be up at the Kerrobert Courtroom Gallery until August 31.