FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OCTOBER 30, 2023
Contact: Margo Saulnier msaulnier@nbedc.org 508-991-3122
Click here for link to high res photos & video
New Bedford Artist Keith Francis showcases captivating artwork “WELCOME!” at prestigious “American Beauty” exhibition in Padua, Italy, alongside artworks by Andy Warhol, Banksy, Annie Leibovitz, Shepard Fairey, and many other luminaries
NEW BEDFORD, MA — New Bedford Creative is thrilled to share the news that acclaimed New Bedford-based artist Keith Francis is currently exhibiting his mesmerizing artwork, “WELCOME!” as part of the prestigious “American Beauty” exhibition in Padua, Italy. The exhibition, which commenced on September 13, 2023, will continue to captivate art enthusiasts until January 21, 2024, at the Altinate/San Gaetano Cultural Center in Padua, Italy.
In addition to his career as an artist, Keith Francis is also a Visual Design and Communications instructor at Greater New Bedford Regional Technical Vocational High School. He graduated from UMass Dartmouth in 1989 with a BA in Photography/Visual Communications, and added a Master of Fine Arts from Massachusetts College of Art in 2018.
His passion for social activism and commentary has played a foundational role in his artwork, transcending simple classification and spanning various mediums. From graphic design to large-scale sculptures, Keith’s artistry has gained recognition and acclaim within the art world. His work is part of the Artemizia Foundation contemporary art collection in Bisbee, Arizona, as well as many corporate, university and private collections worldwide.
Most recently in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Francis created the towering “Love Locks” contemporary metal sculpture unveiled along Acushnet Avenue in the city on July 23, 2023. A joint project with MassDevelopment’s New Bedford TDI District and New Bedford Creative, its introduction was a milestone event in the city’s north end and a powerful catalyst for community connection. Indeed, beginning with the unveiling celebration at the Nye Street Pocket Park, an entire series of Wednesday evening events were launched.
Meanwhile, in Italy, the “American Beauty” exhibition is curated by the esteemed Daniel Buso and boasts an exclusive collection of 130 artworks, showcasing the lights and shadows that have shaped the American landscape over the past century.
Among the remarkable lineup of artists, Keith Francis‘s thought-provoking piece “WELCOME!” stands shoulder-to-shoulder with masterpieces by renowned figures such as Andy Warhol, Banksy, Annie Leibovitz, Shepard Fairey, and many other luminaries.
“American Beauty,” a metaphor for the complexities of American society, mirrors the resilience of a magnificent rose’s petals amidst its inherent fragility, subtly portraying the nation’s explicit and underlying contradictions, according to organizers. Keith Francis‘s contribution, “WELCOME!” intricately weaves into the exhibition’s narrative, serving as a poignant reflection on contemporary social themes and cultural intricacies.
While audiences in Padua are currently reveling in the allure of Keith Francis‘s “WELCOME!” and the entire “American Beauty” collection, residents of New Bedford can continue to explore the artist’s profound creativity through his remarkable local installations.
Notable pieces include “Glittering Patterns” on Front Street, “Love Locks” at the Nye Street Pocket Park, and “White Fence” (2020) at the Groundwork Gallery at the Quest Center, 1213 Purchase Street, set to greet visitors from November 1 through February 1, 2024.
For a thought-provoking journey through the nuanced tapestry of contemporary art, art enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the “American Beauty” exhibition in Padua, Italy, and experience the profound brilliance of Keith Francis‘s “WELCOME!” alongside an array of masterpieces from renowned global artists.
For a similar journey closer to home, art lovers can tour the waterfront, parks and common spaces of New Bedford – featuring work by internationally acclaimed artist Keith Francis.
For more information about Keith Francis‘s works and ongoing exhibitions, visit his website keithfrancisart.com.