Artworks by Merrimon Kennedy

Moving to the Southwest part of the United States in 2015 inspired and motivated me to attempt plein air painting (a French expression meaning “open air” that refers to creating a work of art outside). Despite battling the elements, insects and ever changing light, there was something gratifying about being in the moment that was immediately appealing. Discovering the joy of working outdoors opened up a new world I had never explored. I tried my first group "paintout" and realized soon after I was hooked.

My style of painting falls into the impressionist category with leanings toward abstract: color, texture and mark-making are important to me.I am not striving for realism, my objective is to develop an artistic shorthand that captures the essence of that moment. My plein air paintings are usually oil on panel, almost exclusively done using palette knives. Larger studio pieces may start with an acrylic underpainting and executed with a combination of knives, brushes, spatulas and even rags to wipe or manipulate the paint. Though there is structure, I also want looseness and spontaneity to guide my work and lend expression to the subject.