Introduction to Kinetic Artist Guy Beckles
Kinetic artist Guy Beckles is one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets, as described by the late cultural icon Pat Bishop. With a passion for art that spans almost 50 years, Beckles is on a mission to share his unique style with the world. His dream is to open a kinetic art gallery in Trinidad and Tobago, where he can showcase his art and pass on his knowledge to upcoming artists.
About Guy Beckles
Beckles, a 72-year-old former secondary school teacher, is a graduate of Queen’s Royal College (QRC) and Dartmouth College in the US, where he studied visual arts. He now lives and works in Delray Beach, Florida. His extensive travels throughout North India, North Africa, Western China, and Europe have significantly influenced his kinetic art, which is characterized by movement, creativity, and color.
Kinetic Art and Its Significance
Kinetic art is a medium that is deeply rooted in movement, making it a perfect fit for Trinidad and Tobago, a country renowned for its vibrant Carnival celebrations. Beckles’ work is a reflection of the society’s dynamics, exploring the ethnic, cultural, political, and social constructs. His art pieces are designed to evoke curiosity, amazement, and emotion, often featuring whimsical yet profound elements.
Exhibitions and Collaborations
Beckles has exhibited his work around the world, including in London, New York, Washington DC, Boston, Toronto, Florida, and Trinidad and Tobago. His recent exhibitions in Trinidad, held at Central Bank and Arnim’s Art Galleria, featured collaborations with over 20 of the country’s leading artists. In these exhibitions, Beckles challenged each artist to create a story when the pieces moved, resulting in unique and captivating displays of kinetic art.
Future Plans and Goals
Beckles’ ultimate goal is to establish a kinetic gallery/museum in Trinidad, where he can showcase a large selection of differing forms of kinetic art. The museum would serve as a space for workshops, mentoring, and collaboration with artists from various genres. Beckles is also willing to customize art pieces for schools and corporate clients in Trinidad and Tobago. Earlier this year, he mounted a piece on the QRC compound, dedicated to the college’s iconic main building.
Upcoming Exhibitions
Beckles’ next two exhibitions will be held at Island Space Caribbean Museum in Broward Mall, Florida, from November 22 to January 18, and at Arnim’s Art Gallery in San Fernando, from March 2 to 27. Those interested in supporting Beckles’ venture can contact him at gkebeck@yahoo.com or 1-929-272-9234.
Conclusion
Guy Beckles is a talented kinetic artist with a passion for sharing his unique style with the world. With his extensive experience, collaborations, and exhibitions, he is well on his way to achieving his dream of opening a kinetic art gallery in Trinidad and Tobago. As he continues to create and inspire, his art will undoubtedly evoke curiosity, amazement, and emotion in all who experience it.
