How I acquired right here: Amos Paul Kennedy Jr.
After Amos Paul Kennedy Jr. switched from computers to printing at the age of 40, he has led a life in printing ever since. He tells us about his trip
At the age of 40, Amos Paul Kennedy Jr. decided that his job as a systems analyst for a multinational company was not getting done and that he needed something more. After engaging in printing and lettering as a hobby for a few years, he decided to change his lifestyle and turn that passion into a career. Now, 30 years later, the work of the printer and artist celebrates the craft and traditional printing processes.
Letterpress posters are Kennedy's Bread and Butter; He creates them in his Detroit, Michigan store, often for as little as $ 25 each. Inspired by proverbs, quotes and sayings, his posters comment on society and politics and raise questions about race, equality and the ideas of the artist. Although the subjects that Kennedy takes on are weighty, his posters are full of optimism, hope, and humor.
Kennedy has exhibited at MoMA, the Library of Congress, and other institutions in the United States, and has taught and hosted workshops at some of the most prestigious institutions and universities.
Here we talk to the printer about wanting more than the American dream, its creative process, and why happiness can be a political statement.
Amos Paul Kennedy Jr. at the Virginia Festival of the Book 2019; Image © Pat Jarrett, Virginia Humanities
Creative Insight How I got here