Kevin Knittel

Bio

Hailing from the vibrant city of Detroit, MI. Kevin Knittel’s artistic journey is as eclectic as his background.  An alumnus of Arizona State University, Kevin majored in Economics and Business, a unique prelude to his artistic endeavors.  His career, predominantly anchored in the bustling arts scenes of Scottsdale and Los Angeles, took a new turn with a relocation to the dynamic Tampa/St. Petersburg area in 2018.  Kevin’s artistry, deeply influenced by the rich tapestry of Southwest indigenous culture and art, is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.  His foray into mixed media 3D art sprouted from a fascination with paper making, viewing paper not just as a medium but as a sculptural language. Embracing the intricate dance of traditional and contemporary techniques, he fuses hand-casting in a bespoke Nepalese method with artist-crafted molds.  His creations are a symphony of textures and forms with each piece a testament to his meticulous process.  The sculptures are adorned with a palette of cementitious coatings, epoxy, resin, and metal oxide patinas, evoking a sense of earthy realism and ethereal beauty.  Kevin’s work is more than an artistic expression, it’s a journey through the realms of texture, form, and alchemy of materials.  His work has garnered numerous awards and is in private collections including the Tampa Museum of Art and Florida Craft Art.

Awards

• Mainsail Art Festival 2023 | Award of Merit

• Mainsail Art Festival 2022 | Award of Merit

• Gasparilla Festival of the Arts 2020 | GFA Award of Merit, (purchased by Tampa Museum of Art - Permanent Collection)

• Florida CraftArt Festival 2019 | Award of Excellence

• Winter Park Autumn Art Festival 2019 | Award of Honor and Patron Purchase

• Mainsail Art Festival 2019 | Award of Distinction

• Art Festival Beth-El 2019 | Patron Purchase

• Suncoast Art Festival 2019 | Award of Excellence

• Florida CraftArt Festival 2018 | Award of Merit

• Mainsail Art Festival 2018 | Award of Merit