bio
Kevin Kirkwood is a contemporary artist and educator whose work consists of innovative paintings and immersive installations. His approach integrates acrylic paint with unconventional techniques, employing a plethora of substrates, nylon strands, and video projections. This multi-dimensional approach not only elevates the visual complexity but also intensifies the emotional depth of his art.
Kirkwood’s oeuvre is a profound investigation into childhood experiences and their lasting impact, with a particular emphasis on art therapy to process and understand fragmented experiences and intricate emotions. His installations and paintings provide a contemplative complex space for viewers.
His work has been showcased at prestigious venues such as the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) ) in a group exhibition curated by the American Institute of Architects, and also at the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia (MOCAGA), where his work was featured in the Gathered biennial exhibitions of 2021 and 2023. These exhibitions underscore his unique contributions to contemporary art and his ability to forge deep connections with audiences.
In addition to his artistic practice, Kirkwood is a committed advocate for the art community through his roles as producer of the influential podcasts The Strand and The Ten Frame. These platforms amplify voices within the art world and foster insightful discourse on contemporary art practices.
With a career that merges creative exploration with community engagement, Kevin Kirkwood continues to push the boundaries of art, creating immersive experiences that are both introspective and transformative.
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EDUCATION
MFA SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN. Savannah, GA
B.Arch UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI. Coral Gables, FL
SELECTED SOLO EXHIBITIONS
2024 THE FORGIVENESS MACHINE - forthcoming, Bululu, Savannah, GA
2023 P.S. DON’T FORGET TO BREATHE - Savannah Rep, Savannah GA
2018 LOVE.HOPE.DREAM - Union Chapel, Vancouver, WA
2011 HELP HAITI - W.E. Washington Convention Center, Washington D.C.
2010 HELP HAITI - Fort Lauderdale Library, Fort Lauderdale, FL
2001 FACE - Timucua Arts Foundation, Orlando, FL
SELECTED GROUP EXHIBITIONS
2024 ARTFIELDS - The Continuum, Lake City, South Carolina
2024 CELESTIAL SEAFARERS - Ships of the Seas Museum, Savannah, GA
2024 GATHEREDVI - The Museum of Contemporary Art, Atlanta, GA
2023 BONCHE! - Bululu, Savannah GA
2023 COLLISION - Studio 10/Sulfur Studios, Savannah GA
2023 DESOLATION ROW; MK Opening- Laney Contemporary, Savannah, GA
2023 DeFine ART - Alexander Hall/SCAD, Savannah, GA
2022 GATHEREDV – The Museum of Contemporary Art, Atlanta, GA
2017 SECRET SKETCHERS – The Museum of Modern Art, San Francisco, CA
2017 HOT SHOTS – DES, San Francisco, CA
2015 BEAUTIFUL DECAY – Opa-Locka Community Development Corps, Opa-Locka, FL
2013 BRUSH STROKES – San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, San Luis Obispo, CA
2011 Lowe Art Museum, Coral Gables, FL
2010 ARTIST BEHIND THE ARCHITECT - Korach Gallery, Coral Gables, FL
AWARDS AND GRANTS
2010 The Preston Endowment Award
2010 The Charles Peterson Award, NPS Heritage Documentation Program
2010 Artist behind the Architect, UM SOA
2009 Darby Bannard Endowment Award, UM CAS
COLLECTIONS
Prime, Atlantic City, NJ
Mang Collection, Miami, FL
SHARP, Miami, FL
Wesley Foundation, Coral Gables, FL
CONTACT
email: kevinwillpaint@gmail.com
instagram: @kevinwillpaint @strandpodcast
