Local artist K.O. Lewis seeks to inspire people through his work. A handful of his paintings are on display throughout February as the featured exhibit in Owensboro Community and Technical College’s Dayman Gallery.
Lewis, an assistant principal at Newton Parrish Elementary School. Working in acrylic and mixed media, his artwork often features prominent figures that he admires and looks to for inspiration.
Lewis said the gallery, much like his style of art, is to inspire those who see it.
“As an artist, I’ve come to recognize the inherent need to create for self and allow for organic connections to happen naturally. In past works, I’ve created iconic portraits of popular figures from various genres of life with limited intent other than popularity,” he said. “This methodology created some stunning visuals and led to attention, but it didn’t speak to a need that fueled my passion. In the past several years my philosophy has changed. My intent and focus on who I create has changed.”
Lewis said he’s become driven to create art that possesses a mirrored effect on what he desires to see in himself as well as in the world.
“I create visuals of those whose stories resonate with me and inspire me to continue to look within,” he said. “In this process, my goal is to inspire. Inspire myself, the viewer, and the next generation of people who may need the spark of inspiration and thought. My goal of connecting with the viewer in this way is Contemporary Expressionism. The attempt to capture the energy and feel of the subject matter along with the usage of color and mood is my outward expression of internal self.”
OCTC Dean of Students and Director of Culture Sharmy Davis helped coordinate the gallery and encourages everyone to see the exhibit.
OCTC’s Dayman Gallery, located at at 4800 New Hartford Road, is open and free to the public from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The K.O. Lewis exhibit will be available through February 29, 2024.
