A comprehensive retrospective exhibition spanning more than 30 years of powerful figurative works by esteemed artist and Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University professor emeritus Boyd Quinn is on view in the KCAD Spark Gallery through July 13.

"Paintings by Boyd Quinn: 1990-2024" showcases Quinn's mastery of figurative painting, highlighting his ability to capture nuanced moods and personal narratives through carefully crafted brushstrokes and mixed media techniques.

The exhibition features 28 paintings that demonstrate the artist's signature style, which combines oil washes, textural elements, and gestural marks to create depth and emotional resonance.

Through his dedication to the craft, Quinn continues to captivate audiences with his evocative figurative paintings, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the complexities of human emotion.

A highlight of the show is a portrait of Quinn painted by KCAD alumna Raime Lee, who studied under the renowned professor. Lee's depiction captures the spirit and lasting impact Quinn has had on generations of students as both a painter and educator.

“He provided some of the best insight and critical conversation about painting, while being the first to admit that he might not be right,” said Lee in a statement for the exhibition. “Although he laced his instruction with effortless humor and quippy anecdotes, he carried a heaviness that comes from witnessing life in its most honest and raw forms.”

Quinn holds a Master of Fine Arts from Eastern Michigan University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Aquinas College. With more than 30 years of teaching experience at KCAD, he has imparted knowledge and made long-term impacts in fine arts programming throughout the years.  

His work has been exhibited nationally, including at the Muskegon Museum of Art and Grand Valley State University. Quinn's accolades include a Michigan Council for the Arts Creative Artist Grant and several Best of Show awards from esteemed institutions like the Muskegon Museum of Art and the Birmingham-Bloomfield Art Center.

"Paintings by Boyd Quinn: 1990-2024" runs through July 13 in the KCAD Spark Gallery located at 17 Fountain St. NW. Gallery hours are Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public. Visit kcad.edu to learn more.

_{Photo credit to Ferris State University.}