A short series introducing many of the visual artists involved in Flourish Festival 2017.

Featured Artist: Graeme Kennedy

Graeme Kennedy is a printmaker. He calls his work, loosemath. It’s a concept that guides his work, and informs his worldview. It’s hard to explain, but trust him – it’s incredibly insightful and profoundly deep. He most often makes big pieces of heavily repeating shapes. It’s all about the process. All about the ink driven into his fingerprints. All about the back pain. His prints can be frustrating, obviously following a pattern while brashly stepping outside of it. He’s kind of like a punk-monk. Ya, that’s good. Forget everything you just read and start again right here: Graeme Kennedy is a punk monk.

What does it mean for you to create / showcase in a new environment, even if it’s only for a few days?

It’s strange to work on something knowing that it will be temporary. It’s both liberating and depressing. Mostly liberating. Actually it’s 50/50. Actually, it’s 30/70. But I’m looking forward to it anyway.

What have you been working on recently? Anything you’d like to showcase in this article?

Lately I’ve been working on a website that will launching soon. It will be home to my artwork, music, and writing. I’ve also been doing some design for Quality Block Party in Saint John (April 26-30).

What are you planning for FLOURISH this year?

For Flourish I’m taking over the broom closet outside Shiftwork Studio for a print-installation. Hoping to create a walk-in linocut print.

What is exciting you about FLOURISH this year?

It’s my first year living in Fredericton, and my first year in the festival, so I’m excited by the whole thing. I look forward to seeing what everyone comes up with, and to hear some bands that are new to me. Anytime this many artists and musicians are working together, there are bound to be some special moments.

Anything else you’d like to mention?

I’m in the festival as a musician as well. I’ll be playing The Capitol on Friday April 21st at 9:30. Double threat y’all. Watch your back j-Lo.

Instagram @instagraemekennedy

For music www.graemekennedymusic.com

Visit www.flourish-fest.com for complete festival information.