Kenny Ulysses Grant, a 43-year-old action abstract painter based in New York City and the Tristate area, has been captivating the art world with his dynamic and emotionally charged works. Known for his unique approach to abstract painting, Kenny's journey into the art scene is deeply personal and profoundly inspiring.
Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Kenny was introduced to the world of art by his single mother, who nurtured his early interest in creativity. Despite his early passion, life took him on different paths, including a 20-year career as a personal fitness coach. However, the spark for art never completely faded.
About five years ago, a serendipitous encounter with exciting artwork rekindled Kenny's interest in painting. Although he did not act on this rekindling immediately, a significant and tragic event would later drive him back to his artistic roots. On January 6, 2022, Kenny's mother passed away from a Fentanyl overdose, a loss that profoundly affected him. This tragedy, coupled with his own experiences with substance abuse—he is approaching seven years of sobriety this November 17th—ignited a renewed passion for art. Kenny saw it as a way to honor his mother and express his journey and advocacy for mental health and substance abuse issues.
Kenny's style, known as action abstract painting, is characterized by his use of latex and acrylic paints on canvas. He employs an array of unconventional tools, such as sticks, ground pegs, and hammers, to apply paint, creating works that are both chaotic and controlled. His paintings are a blend of love, joy, passion, and pain, reflecting his complex emotions and life experiences.
In his own words, Kenny describes his work as finding "complete peace in the CHAOS of my paintings." His artworks are intended for everyone, embodying both celebratory and thoughtful themes. They serve as expressions of pain and solace, encapsulating the tumultuous yet cathartic process of creation.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, Kenny has returned to school to become a Physical Education teacher. He hopes to inspire and positively impact students, encouraging them to become the best versions of themselves.
On Friday, July 12, 2024, Kenny participated in the Cannavita Art Exhibition, a prestigious event curated by the Ovono Agency. This exhibition was a significant milestone for Kenny, allowing him to showcase his work to a broader audience and receive widespread acclaim.
Artist Q&A with OA
1. When did you start as an artist? Where did you start out?
I started as an artist at a young age, guessing four or five years old. My medium was mainly pencil, pen, or colored pencils. I attempted an oil painting in 2017, which was interesting. I did not become an abstract artist until June 2022.
2. What inspired you the most to begin your journey as an artist?
Unfortunately, what inspired my artistic paintings since 2022 was the unexpected fentanyl overdose of my mom on January 6th, 2022. She battled with substance abuse all her adult life pretty much. It was truly unfortunate, and I still battle to process it to this day. She is also the very first artistic teacher my brother and I had as children. She taught us how to draw initially. I think I am attempting to process my emotions and express myself through my artwork, I am conscious of being authentic. I hope it comes through in my paintings.
3. Who are some artists you work with or inspire you ?
I have only worked alone so far, but many artists inspire me. As one can see from my artwork, Jackson Pollock is a huge inspiration, and Julie Mehretu is a huge inspiration.
4. Would you say you have a specific style or theme, if so how would you describe that?
I do have a specific style. It is very much an action abstract/drip style. I sometimes do pop art-type pieces.
5. Where can people find your work?
People can mainly see my work on Instagram (@kugrantartwork). I have been in 3 publications and about 8 group exhibits. I also have worked in Litchfield, CT, at Alofft Gallery. The publications are Artist Talk Magazine, Novum Artis Magazine, and Bleucalf Magazine. I exhibited two times at One Art Space in Tribeca (2022, 2023), Seaport Coalition Holiday Art Craft Show and Auction, Superfine Art Fair (2023), and Art Expo 2024. I did two other group exhibits, one at The Buren Café in Brooklyn with UP Magazine and the other at Cannavita Dispensary with Ovono Agency.
6. What have been some of your most recent exhibitions or shows?
My most recent exhibit is Art Expo 2024. The Buren Café in Brooklyn with UP Magazine for the Neighborhood Series Art exhibit, and the other most recent at Cannavita Dispensary with Ovono Agency.
7. What do you have coming up or that you are currently working on?
I am definitely working on new pieces and attempting to hone my craft. In September, I hope to be showing at the Affordable Art Fair with a wonderful group of artist friends who have become an Art Collective.
8. Where can we follow you or stay in the loop with your updates?
You can mainly follow me on my art Instagram @kugrantartwork. I post all my art-based stuff there, upcoming shows, and current pieces I’m working on, and I get to support friends and other artists when they exhibit.
Kenny's journey and artwork can be explored further through his Instagram account, @kugrantartwork. Art enthusiasts can also purchase his work via Venmo (@Kenny-Grant-1) or reach out to him directly at kgrantartwork@gmail.com.
Kenny Ulysses Grant's story is a testament to the transformative power of art and the resilience of the human spirit. His work continues to inspire and provoke thought, offering a glimpse into the heart and mind of an artist who has found peace amidst chaos.
