Artist Frank Kelley Jr.

ARTIST TO GET TO KNOW -FRANK KELLEY JR.

Sistah’s Place Magazine Artist Feature June/July 2018

Get to Know Artist Frank Kelley Jr.

By Letrise Carter

Get to know artist Frank Kelley Jr, a seasoned full-time artist of twenty years. He considers himself the messenger who creates images that reflect passion, stories, and spiritual journeys. Who is Frank Kelly Jr.? He is a graduate of Grambling State University with a degree in Fine Arts and Business Management. Frank’s work has been recognized by General Motors, Art & Antique Magazine, Alvin Ailey Award, Charles Wright Museum, and Detroit Spirit Award. He has many proclamations from the city of Monroe, Louisiana, Color Purple Exhibition, and Xavier University. Frank has done what many artists dream of doing. We sat down to talk with Frank about his art and his journey as a veteran artist. Learn what makes him unique and stand out among his peers.

Sistah’s Place: How did you begin with art?

Frank: I realized I had the gift at an early age. I was a walk-on at Grambling State University in the 1980s Art Department and things took off from there.

Letrise Carter

Sistah’s Place Magazine Artist Feature June/July 2018

Sistah’s’ Place: Who are some of your influences?

Frank: I would say my parents and Dr. James Shane who is the Director of Grambling State University Art Department. He gave me an opportunity to use my gift. I have a few artists that have influenced me over the years such as Richard Dempsey, Robert S. Duncanson, and Henry Ossawa Tanner. Richard Dempsey is an abstract artist whose painting was highly influenced by colors in his Caribbean environment. Robert S. Duncanson landscapes used nature to convey ideas about America and its ideals. Meanwhile, Henry Ossawa Tanner is best known for the painting “Nicodemus Visiting Jesus”, “The Banjo Lesson”, and The Thankful Poor.

Sistah’s Place: What makes you stand out from other artists?

Frank: The relationship with the understanding of what and why the gift is to be preserved. I don't feel that I stand out in and of myself; it is the resonation of the work to the viewer of the work. The work has so much soul, depth, compassion and life throughout each composition. I believe every artist stands out to those that the work speaks to.

Sistah’s Place: What inspires your creativity that ignites your passion?

Frank: Everyday life situations provide inspiration. My environment and children in their element are my love for humanity and God. Abstracts with its non-objective nature have been near and dear to me for the last 3 years. Abstracts give way to the emotions of the moment - whether the feeling of the moment is mild or bold, the feeling inspires the creation of a piece that hits the sharp notes of intensity or the languid tenderness of peace. Living in Louisiana and my travels throughout the South have inspired my creativity for Landscapes. Growing up in the South brings a unique perspective. As with all my art, the objective is to amplify the emotions in such a way that the viewers can apply their own memories and feel a connection to a special time and place of their own.

Sistah’s Place: Tell us about your latest projects?

Frank: Most recently, I have aligned myself and my work with an amazing non-profit in Atlanta - African's Children's Fund. This organization provides assistance and services to children and families in need in the United States of America. I am a Silver sponsor at their upcoming 3-day fundraiser in Atlanta, November 9 - 11th. This event is a luxury event with an artistic showcase of entertainment and music. Monte Carlo Casino, live auction, International Chef Delights, Bahmardi Luxury Interactive Fashion Show, Frank Kelley Jr. Art Exhibit and a Bentley Automotive Showcase. This is an opportunity for art enthusiasts and collectors in the South East to attend and support this non-profit, meet me in person, and enjoy one of my collections that will be featured for the event. We will also be donating one of my abstract pieces for the live auction. The event is taking place at the Hilton in Marietta, as well as the Luxury Bentley Dealership in Alpharetta. Details can be found at www.africaschildrensfund.org.

Sistah’s Place: Where can readers find your art?

Frank: FKJ Art Gallery is located in West Monroe, LA. My work is also featured in other galleries - Thelma Harris Art Gallery, Oakland CA, Denison Art Gallery, Pennsylvania, PA, Carol Robinson Art Gallery, and New Orleans. My art is displayed throughout my social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and on our website www.frankkelleyjr.com.

We thank you, Frank, for taking time to allow us to escape into your world of artistry. Sistah’s Place wishes you continued success with the work that allows you to capture your vision through art.

Letrise Carter