Kennedy Wallman: Navigating Artistic Inspiration and Community at UNO

To some, the initial assault of the pungent smell mineral spirits and the apparent chaos of canvases and art supplies upon entering the painting studio might be overwhelming. Yet, amidst this creative commotion, surrounded by other artists, is where Kennedy Wallman discovers her inspiration.

Located within the Weber Fine Arts Building on the University of Nebraska at Omaha's (UNO) Dodge campus, Wallman dedicates over 40 hours in the painting studio to craft each of her pieces. Every brushstroke and decision are flawlessly executed with a larger vision in mind.

“Seeing my friends' artwork inspires me, and conversations with my professor sparks creativity. Despite the occasional stress from being emotionally invested in my assignments, being surrounded by my artist friends is inspiring,” said Wallman. “It's a space where dedication and hard work are important, because paintings require genuine effort, and there's no faking it, but being surrounded by other artists makes it worthwhile.”

Typically stemming from a single idea or prompt, Wallman’s paintings offer glimpses into the intricate workings of her mind. Many of her pieces are based off her own human experiences, like her painting, Just A Girl, which mirrors her journey as a young woman. Through subtle symbolism woven into her compositions, Wallman invites viewers to delve deeper, uncovering layers of meaning and insight within her art.

Wallman's artistic journey extends beyond the canvas, showcasing her remarkable talent not only as a painter but also as a curator. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of artistic expression, Wallman has curated exhibitions that resonate deeply with audiences, offering a glimpse into her multifaceted creativity.

During her freshman year, with what first began as a simple DIY initiative, Wallman transformed her humble dorm room into an immersive art space, creating her first ever curated art gallery. By repurposing everyday objects and utilizing unconventional materials, she created a space where creativity knows no bounds. Wallman invited other students in her housing unit to tour her unique exhibit.

One of Wallman's most significant collaborations was her involvement in the "Experiences in Femininity" exhibition, where her artistic vision intersected with meaningful dialogues on gender and identity. Through thought-provoking pieces that challenged societal norms and celebrated diverse perspectives, Wallman and her co-collaborator, Toni Parker, sparked conversations that went beyond the gallery walls, leaving a lasting impact on all who experienced the exhibition.

"Curating an exhibit is incredibly demanding. It involves so much work that many people don't realize. You have to start with the idea of what kind of show you want. Then, there's the process of making it happen, and I always have help with that. 'Experiences with Femininity' was probably the most work I've ever put into a show this year. I couldn't have done it without my co-creator,” said Wallman.

In each of these endeavors, Wallman's passion for art shines brightly, illuminating the path for future generations of artists at UNO. Whether curating exhibitions, transforming spaces, or sparking meaningful dialogues, she continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression.

Wallman's time at UNO reflects how a supportive community can fuel artistic growth. UNO welcomed her creativity from day one, offering great resources, supportive professors, and hands-on experiences. Surrounded by top-notch facilities and helpful mentors, Wallman honed her skills, explored new art forms, and gained real-world insights through internships and collaborations.

"At UNO, I've always felt 100% supported. I've never experienced discomfort or lack of acceptance. All my internships, faculty interactions, and involvements have been incredibly supportive experiences."

As Wallman continues to hone her craft at UNO, she remains committed to pushing the boundaries of her artistic expression. With aspirations to explore new mediums and tackle challenging themes, she is poised to leave her mark on the art world.

"UNO has provided me with the platform and resources to pursue my passion for art," Wallman affirms. "I am grateful for the opportunities to grow and evolve as an artist, and I look forward to the journey ahead."