Interview with Alvin Kennedy by Howard McQuitter II
“My art reflects a blend of urgan and primitive themes, expressed in pen and ink drawings and rigid paper sculptures,” Alvin Kennedy says. “The latter most often take the form of unique masks that reflects my heritage and bridges ethnic communities.”
Alvin Kennedy is a sculptor-painter par excellence who concentrates on making African masks. While he worked as a social service counselor for youth in trouble, Alvin used his artistic talents.
Interviewer (Howard McQuitterll) (HM): How long have you lived in the Twin Cities?
Alvin Kennedy (AK): Since 1984. I was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
HM: You have an extensive mask collection. What are some of the shows you”'ve displayed your African masks at?
AK: The Soap Factory, Soul on Ice, Sabathani Center, Dignity Center at Hennepin Avenue, Methodist Church, Burnt Wood Gallery, Gallery 13.
HM: As an African American artist with your fine talent in Minneapolis, have you collaborated with other African American artists or other artists of color in the Twin Cities?
AK: Yes. I have worked with other African American artists with Soul on Ice.
HM: What is your next project and when?
AK: I change masks at Sabathani Center, Hennepin Methodist church and will again show masks at Gallery 13 in downtown Minneapolis.
HM: Before I end, I”'d like your not easy answer ”“ what do you think African American artists in general should bring to the social conscience in the 21st century?
AK: A way of defining black culture and bridge cultural divides.
To learn more about Alvin”'s artwork, or to purchase his work, contact him at alvinkennedy@comcast.net
