Ken Craft: A Never Finished Light
Ken Craft: A Never Finished Light
Ken Craft’s latest works explore the fluidity of evolution, blending representational art with conceptual themes to depict forms that come into existence, change, and perhaps fall away. His vibrant imagery invites viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of life and the poetic beauty of constant change.
"I have long hoped that people might see themselves as entirely part of the natural world and not above it or outside of it. We are cousins to trees and butterflies and rabbits—and, of course, to each other."
Originally from New Mexico, the Dallas-based artist Ken Craft explores the complexities of evolution, change, and our place within the natural world. Drawing inspiration from British evolutionary biologist and author Richard Dawkins, Craft presents an unfolding narrative about the fluidity of species over time. Ever-changing figures drift and transform in the cosmos and atmosphere, inviting us to reflect on the ancient flux and interconnectedness of all life. Through this vibrant imagery, he encourages viewers to consider not only our profound and literal connection to nature but also the shared journey of all living beings.
In addition to his artistic practice, Craft has nearly 30 years of experience as a professional firefighter. This background provides him with a unique perspective, allowing him to blend natural history and storytelling to communicate concepts of evolution and change through vivid imagery that merges science with imagination.
As he prepares to retire from the fire service in January 2025, Craft looks forward to advancing his artistic journey and deepening his exploration of the natural world.
Perpetual Transformations
Upon entering 'A Never Finished Light,' the viewer is met with a selection of pieces that introduce the content of the exhibition.
Here, the 1892 rabbit-duck illusion is recontextualized not as a "this or that," but as a perpetually shifting form that exists between duck and rabbit, always embodying both. Within this work is the German phrase for "Should I stay or should I go?"– a simple nod to The Clash or inviting contemplation on when it might settle into just one form? Rabbit or Duck?
Ken Craft, Lyric, 2024. Oil on canvas. 18"x24"
Exploring the Branches of Connection
Evoking memories of a forgotten high school biology course, Craft offers a simple yet vivid, and revelatory visualization of evolutionary history.
This piece is a stark reminder of how deeply connected Homo sapiens are to the nature we tend to separate ourselves from. Craft seems to declare that we are branches on the evolutionary tree, whose roots yield our true origins.
Ken Craft, The Branch, 2024. Oil on canvas. 32"x42"
Endless Continuum
"Engine's Glow" provides a subtle nod to Craft's main subject: the rabbit. As a hand gestures to mimic rabbit ears and casts shadows onto a wall, this piece serves as a playful tribute to the connection between humans and nature. The fading shadows perhaps reference the ephemerality of a species over deep timescales and the ever-so-distant common ancestor linking us all together.
Ken Craft, Engine's Glow, 2023. Oil on canvas. 18"x16"