With a focus on tapping into the wonderment of how children see the world around them — and things that just make a person happy — these are feelings artist Randell McKenney hopes his paintings will evoke while they’re on exhibit this month at LACA (Ludington Area Center for the Arts.)
“I think that’s good for us right now,” McKenney said, reflecting on how art can impact people and illuminate their lives, like the glowing moon brightening a darkened pathway.
The solo exhibit, “A Touch of Contentment” was displayed for public viewing at LACA beginning yesterday with a public artist reception. Visitors will be able to view the exhibit through Friday, Feb. 28, in the performance hall lobby gallery.
McKenney enjoys working with themes involving the fantasy domain, with artists Frank Frazetta and Brian Froud serving as inspirations — taking viewers of the art on a journey to other worlds that spark imagination.
In fact, each painting of McKenney’s is like opening a page to a story book without words — one where the viewer is the author of where the imagery takes them.
“I paint all kinds of things,” he said. “Something sparks my interest and then I’m off and running.”
While working on a piece, McKenney said he tends to get carried away with details — but to those who view his art — they know this is signature. His use of rich color also is defining.
McKenney works with oils paints on surfaces such as canvas board or masonite, depending on what’s available. While working with masonite, he cuts the size of the piece to fit a frame, and not the other way around — as many an artist might know, this is just more practical.
When McKenney lived in Grand Rapids before moving to Scottville in 1989, he’d have his works in a show in one of the major banks downtown. Then, many years he was busy with work and raising his family. In recent years he’s had more time to get back into the artist life.
Now McKenney is thrilled to have his works showcased at LACA.
“It’s unbelievable,”he said. “I was so surprised when Andy Skinner asked if I’d consider exhibiting my paintings. I said, ‘Oh yes, definitely.’”
LACA, located at 107 S. Harrison St., Ludington, is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. McKenney is hoping folks will check out his exhibit, and that it will bring a bit more enrichment and smiles into their lives.