The Symbiotic Relationship of Art and Artist - Kevin Hipe

Part Two – the Art

Observing the artistic creations of Kevin Hipe opens up the mind to realms of possibility. Weaving together a mix of color, light and shadow, using a variety of mediums, he ingeniously conveys messages about the world around us, and how we relate to that world.

His work elicits a strong emotional response from those who see it. Though the images appear simple at first glance, there is depth and meaning that only reveals itself with closer examination and reflection. One cannot just look at his art, and walk away, without wondering what lies beneath the surface. Kevin's art expresses the intrinsic values that make us human, and it triggers our inquisitiveness and natural curiosity about life.

Kevin feels that art should reveal the thoughts and experiences of life. It should be a form of expression that passes on wisdom to future generations. It should speak like poetry without words. It should ask the question "Do I dare disturb the universe?"*

His need to examine the qualities that make us human have lead him to experiment in a number of mediums.

There are the oil on canvas paintings of the "Chair Series" that examine the world of travel through thought (while sitting safely ensconced in one's comfortable old chair).

Another series of paintings, "Buddhas", is an iconographic look at the inner self.

There are assemblage pieces with intricately placed layers woven together like a jigsaw puzzle of thoughts, each piece linking together to create one image.

There are collages that evoke smiles and laughter with their clever wit.

There are stunningly gorgeous photographs of the natural beauty that surround him on his island home.

Each is a unique reflection of the artist, a man who is continually reinventing himself and his work. His art is quirky, chaotic, and thought provoking, much like the man himself.

Kevin's work can be viewed locally at the Suwannee Triangle Gallery on Dock Street.

(*From T. S. Eliot's poem The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock)