Kench Lott Weathers
USA
Kench Lott Weathers is an American artist residing in Savannah, Georgia. Primarily a three-dimensional artist, he creates art across many disciplines. Some of his influences consist of the Minimalists, Op-artists and Constructivists. His work has been published both nationally and internationally.
He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts at Savannah State University and a Master of Fine Arts -emphasis in sculpture- at Georgia Southern University.
His installations make use of the rooms interior and architectural layout by incorporating mixed media structures in a nontraditional format; making use of the corners, ceiling and floor.
The materials used range from steel, wood, light, and vinyl. His work is not a critique of contemporary society, but an escape from it. His installations challenge the viewers sense of space and depth.
1. What’s your background?
I received my undergraduate degree at Savannah State University and my Graduate degree at Georgia Southern University. I currently reside in Savannah, Georgia, USA. The human experience influences my work, including research into theology, Eastern and Western Philosophy, as well as contemporary culture.
2. What does your work aim to say?
By use of multi-stable perception, the interpretation of the design changes when viewed at different angles. This process also acts as a catalyst for the viewer to conceptualize the complexities of certain ideas, as well as societal occurrences.
3. How does your work comment on current social or political issues?
My latest work examines the role of the hero in an historical and contemporary societal context. There is dichotomy within the literal interpretation of that role. The hero is not perfect, therefore the virtues become the signifying factor. The hero becomes a metaphor and ultimately a myth.
4. Who are your biggest influences?
The Constructivist, Op-Art and Minimalist movements greatly influence my work. Persian artist, Monir Shahroudy Farmanfarmaian as well as Japanese American artist, Isamu Noguchi have inspired my work as well.
5. How has your art evolved over the years?
Majority of my life I painted. It was only until Graduate School, I discovered instillation art and sculptural techniques. I started to work with metals, including large scale steel pieces, which was a new experience for me.
6. What does art mean to you?
Art is a means of communication that surpasses the constraints of any political, religious and/or cultural partisanship.
7. What’s the most valuable piece of art to you?
If my work connects to the public in a very clear and concise way, then it holds true value.
8. What’s next for you in the future?
I plan to create more public sculpture for both the public and private sector. I am also considering exploring utilitarian design work.