/Galleries
Amos Paul Kennedy, Jr.: Citizen Printer
Event WebsiteAbout
Through the use of bold language, graphic typography, and colorful layers, Amos Paul Kennedy, Jr.’s prints embody an intensity that catches the eye and provokes the mind. He is extremely outspoken about the impact of white supremacy and racism. These themes are reflected in Kennedy’s work and encompass the evolving trajectory of Black liberation in the United States.
Curated by designer and author Kelly Walters, Letterform Archive’s exhibition includes a wide variety of printed artifacts such as broadsides, maps, church fans, handbills and oversized posters produced throughout Kennedy’s career.
SF/Arts Curator Insight
Self described as a "humble negro printer," Amos Paul Kennedy, Jr. imbues his letterpress prints with witty activism. The printmaker's elegant use of color foregrounds political statements that viscerally touch the viewer. His own phrases next to others borrowed from the likes of Nina Simone and Frederick Douglass (among others) speak truths so obvious they piss you off while making you laugh out loud. "Post-racial, my ass," for example. Or the word "goddamn" printed in red across a map of Mississippi. My favorite is a Rosa Parks quote, "The only tired I was, was tired of giving in." You said it, sister.
Mark Taylor
SF/Arts Curator
Letterform Archive
Letterform Archive is a nonprofit center for inspiration, education, publishing, and community. We offer hands-on access to a curated collection of over 75,000 items related to lettering, typography, calligraphy, and graphic design, spanning thousands of years of history.
Letterform Archive is a nonprofit center for inspiration, education, publishing, and community. We offer hands-on access to a curated collection of over 75,000 items related to lettering, typography, calligraphy, and graphic design, spanning thousands of years of history.