BY ANDREW OCHAL
August 14, 2020
Kevin Kuhne, Lombardo's, 2020, watercolor, 14”x20”
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the interviewee, and not necessarily that of Arlene’s Artist Materials. Please contact with any questions. All artwork featured in this post is by Kevin Kuhne via Albany Artists Group.
Kevin Kuhe is an all around great guy. He has been working with Arlene’s as an Instructor in our Atelier at Arlene’s program for 5 years. In These COVID times we emailed him a couple questions to touch base and hopefully get some words of wisdom.
ArtTalk: What is your favorite color?
Kevin Kuhne: My favorite color is blue but as the bridge guard in "Monty Python's Holy Grail" would respond to that, "Wrong!"
AT: What is your go to art supply or what can't you live without?
Kevin: My small travel sketchbook and anything that can make a mark.
AT:Favorite thing to paint?
Kevin: Old buildings.
AT: Any advice for other artists or words of wisdom that help you create?
Kevin: Don't wait for "inspiration". Just point your eyes at something, pick up your pencil or brush, and start. The "inspiration" will arrive later. Think of everything you do as a plan or sketch for the next thing you're going to do.
Kevin Kuhne specializes in watercolor depictions of the Capital region. He has a B.S. in Art Education and teaches classes at South Colonie School District, Arlene’s Artists Supplies, and other venues. He is an active member of many local Arts organizations, including the Oak Room Artists and shows regularly in the Capital District. He is a Signature Member of the Northeast Watercolor Society and has shown in the Artists of the Mohawk Hudson Regional at the Albany Institute of History and Art in 2014/2015, and the 2014 Adirondack National Exhibition of American Watercolors.
Kuhne’s interest in local history, architecture, people, and conservation inspires and motivates his work. He most enjoys working plein air, throughout the year, often using his car as my studio. Formally, the beautiful shapes, color patterns, and atmosphere of everyday scenes is what attracts him. Working on site allows me to convey the energy and life in the streets and neighborhoods where Kuhne finds these elements.
Below are examples of Kevin Kuhne's working process as well as the finished paintings.
Ohioville Sketch, pencil on paper, 5”x7”.
Ohioville Vignette, watercolor, 10” x 13”.
Spectrum Theater, Corona Virus Times, vine charcoal, 9"x12".
Temporarily Closed, Delaware Avenue, March 2020, watercolor, 14” x 20”.