(Posted Feb. 8, 2023)
The first exhibit of the year at the London Arts Center will showcase the work of Ken Madden. The exhibit runs Feb. 16-March 19.
A native of Belfast, Northern Ireland, Madden moved to the United States in 1971. He has lived in the Galloway area just outside of West Jefferson for the past 47 years. Recently retired, he spent most of his career working as a designer.
When it comes to art, Madden is self-taught with the exception of one year of study at the Columbus College of Art & Design. He said he draws to confront the manmade confusion in life.
“In my art, I seek peace, tranquility, and shelter from the storm,” he said. “The purpose of my work is to express feelings and emotions that are shrouded by darkness. For me, words are never enough. Reality cannot justify the things I see, so I create my own fictional reality.”
“Fictional Reality” is the title of Madden’s show. The exhibit will feature approximately 30 pieces, most of which Madden completed in the past five years. He works primarily in graphite and charcoal but also creates works using watercolors, pastels, oil pastels, acrylics, and other media. This marks the first time he has shown his personal artwork publicly.
An opening reception is scheduled for 5-8 p.m. Feb. 24 and is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.
The London Arts Center is located at 121 E. First St., London. Regular gallery hours are: Thursday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
