On Sept. 12, Murray State alumnus Donald Kennedy visited campus for an open house and reception that featured his art work. Held mid-afternoon at J.H. Richmond College, both University and local community members were in attendance.
Kennedy donated a piece of his art work to each residential college building, the university libraries and the office of development. He has other works hanging in Sparks Hall,the Lowry Center, Easley Alumni Center and the office of development. Kennedy has also previously donated some of his works to the annual “A Taste of the Arts” event on campus that raised money for art scholarships.
Following the reception, Kennedy had paintings for purchase with 100% profit going toward the Murray State department of art and design.
Kennedy has designed and painted the unique Hold Thy Banner High: The Campaign for the Students of Murray State University piece that commemorates the University’s efforts in fundraising. He is also the recipient of more than 100 awards for his work since the early 90s.
“All I wanted to do was draw and paint,” Kennedy said in a press release.
Kennedy made it an effort to keep art in his life while he attended school. In the 1960s he exhibited oil paintings and in the 1980s he exhibited his watercolors to the public. He was also a teacher and guidance director in Florida after receiving his degree in history and physical education at Murray State. Kennedy earned his master’s degree in education administration in 1958 from Murray State also.
After retiring in education, he decided to pursue an art career and so he began touring major art shows from Maryland to Florida. Kennedy has also provided artwork for charity programs in Florida.
Students, faculty and community members can see his recent works on display in all of the residential college buildings, the University libraries and the office of development.
Story by Anna Taylor, Features Editor.