Zeke Kelly – WMU Student Exhibit
Artist Statement
“While working in ceramics and a variety of mediums, I enjoy storytelling through motifs in my artwork, aiming to bring empathy and, in turn, connection to the forefront of my art, amplifying the voices of the underrepresented. Using ceramics as a conduit for my sculptures, I often explore themes of LGBTQ+ and disabled life in relation to American society, including organized religion and the empathy deficit.
Specializing in ceramics at Western Michigan University, I aspire to attend graduate school and pursue a therapy license, intending to use art and talk therapy to help others. Psychology and art history continue to shape much of my artwork’s themes, putting research at the forefront of my project planning. With inspirations from various artists (Jean-Michel Basquiat, Gustav Klimt, JooYoung Choi, Lisa Butler, and Jeffery Gibson), I’m inspired by art that is both playful and serious, aiming to resonate with any viewer, artist or otherwise, and hopefully amplify their empathy. To bridge the gaps between our divided nation is not an easy task, much less one I believe will be complete in our lifetime, but it’s one I’m choosing to at least start.”
Venues
