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‘Art of War’ by Kenny Kenglomerate is an artistic masterpiece. The piece depicts the contention between traditional and digital art. Digitally designed, this piece is a perfect example of how the art technique does not matter when the result of both traditional and visual arts techniques is equally aesthetic. And when one can widen the horizons and take advantage of both the methods so why limit themselves? The essence of conventional, as well as digital technique, is quite evident in Kenny’s artwork.
Numerous artists, every once in a while, are at war with themselves. Kenny, who is also a hip-hop dancer and a designer, in his art piece, has portrayed a courageous, strong, and victorious outlook of himself. According to him, for the artists to vanquish this fight, they need to reveal their talents to the world. Artists have to believe in themselves, and they can achieve things in life. It is quite normal for artists to be delusional about the readiness and progress of their artwork. It is their training, commitment, and constant practice that helps them refine their craft. Nonetheless, another significant step in this process is learning to appreciate oneself for all the hard work one puts in.
Self-doubt is the first step towards failure. According to Kenny: “I don’t have to be a marksman to know that you miss 100% of the shots not taken. Just find your target; aim high, and pull the trigger. If you’re not ready to kill all doubt, don’t draw your piece.” As the portrait shows, when one is at war with themselves, they should always keep their head high and aim for the stars. Success will follow.
Kenny, like most artists, finds himself trapped within the debate of Conventional Art versus Digital Art techniques. Settling on the decision of which medium to use over the other can take away the sole purpose of arts, which is to bring peace of mind.
Unlike other artists, both traditional art and visual art techniques have supplemented Kenny Kenglomerate’s craft. There are advantages and disadvantages to both these aesthetic methodologies, but the basics of conventional art assist the artist with envisioning creative answers for their structures. For instance, Kenny states that “oil paints, water paints, aerosol paints, and charcoal are materials that breathe life into an art piece. Every stroke of art brushes and palette knives communicate untold stories to the viewers.” According to this Brooklyn-born artist, these materials help put a soul in the artwork.
Constructive criticism is healthy to the extent that brings required changes in one’s life or personality. It is important to understand that different people have different opinions on things due to the difference in their perspectives. Kenny, in the Art of War, sends in a message ‘to always wear your armor and not let your shield down.’ The moment one lets their guard down, they become vulnerable and susceptible to the stereotypical mindset of the society ad hard words. Kenny believes that every individual needs to stay unaffected by the unwanted opinions of others.
People in this world are inclined to undermine the talented and skilled while overlooking their efforts. It is difficult for people to see others succeed. It is essential for artists not to let those negative thoughts overpower them or make them feel any less. Kenny, who is also an owner of a versatile personality, states that ‘nobody knows the potential of a person, better than the person.’
In today’s world, technology and innovation have touched new heights and as Kenny states, ‘not utilizing it is equivalent to jumping out of a plane without a parachute.’ Advanced digital art software has extended the potential outcomes of creative structures. It has enormous scope and advantages that help this medium of art become easier and more accessible for artists these days.
Similarly, there has been a complete transition of art shows from the times of physical displays through brick-and-mortar galleries to online shows in today’s times. The most fundamental member of society today is social media, which performs most duties. It helps advertise, as well as showcase art to a much larger audience. They can access and appreciate art while interacting through purchasing, selling, and showcasing art online. This process helps save time, money, and a lot of space.
The attitude of an artist plays a fundamental role in their artwork. As Sun Tzu stated: “Victorious warriors win first then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win.” The Art of War portrays Kenny, an American, as a powerful individual because of how he seems dressed and armored. It is the perspective that matters, and thus, the viewpoint of a person is what helps them overcome half the hurdles in life.
Kenny Kenglomerate, a New Yorker, is an emerging visual artist who uses his artistic skills to create digital art pieces that speak to the masses. In addition to this art piece that speaks of grandeur, Kenny has worked on pieces such as ‘Strategic Thoughts,’ that resonates with the haphazard caused by the outbreak of COVID-19, and ‘I’m So Ropa Dope,’ a tribute to the great Muhammad Ali. His visual art skills are commendable, and the way he hides a strong message within his work indicates that even visual art is full of soul!
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