Ken Swinson

Though his accomplishments are many, what follows is an invitation to see the imagination and dedication behind Ken Swinson’s art — the person whose hands and vision shape every piece.

Ken is a self-taught artist from Kentucky, working in painting, printmaking, and pottery. He uses art as a way to explore the world and the life around him. His work often reflects the optimism he sees in rural folk culture, river life, and simple everyday pleasures, giving each piece its own character.

From the very first time I met Ken, his genuine humility and approachable nature were impossible to miss — qualities that shine through in every piece of his captivating artwork. He graciously opened the doors for me, allowing me to step inside his world and witness the imagination and craft that bring each piece to life. The warmth in his smile seems to echo through his art.

Describe yourself in your own words?

I’m a multi-disciplinary artist working in painting, printmaking and pottery

Your art is…

A response to my life as an artist—always learning new skills and life experiences

What inspires you?

I live in a beautiful part of the USA—-with natural beauty and unique culture. Much of my work is influenced by the landscape that surrounds me and the folk art that is common in this region.

What influences your art?

I work in cycles—rotating between paint, print and pottery. The limits and abilities of different medium have a big influence on my work. I combine parts of my life and imagination and whimsy into my work. Optimism and joy are important themes for me… Ideas that make me feel good and smile are often in my work.

Can you define your relationship with art?

I have dedicated my life to being an artist. For better or worse, it is what defines me as a person, and it’s the lens in which i see the world.

Sunlight fills Ken Swinson’s studio as he works at his etching press. The scene radiates the same warmth, calm, and joy that flows through his art.

How do you overcome creative blocks?

I try to keep a list of ideas, so that when I’m blocked, I can refer to them and hopefully spark an idea. I also accept that sometimes I just need to take a break from making art—and I’ll read books and take walks and wait for the next inspiration to hit.

A “Work in Progress” sign in Ken Swinson’s studio — a fitting reminder of his philosophy as a lifelong learner, always exploring and evolving through his art.

Character qualities should an artist nurture?

I think determination is a great quality for an artist. It’s not as easy path, and you need a certain amount of stubbornness to push through the hard times and make it happen. I am personally working on my organization skills. As I get older, and take on more projects, I’m having to plan, and use lists and calendars to make sure I do all the things I have committed to. This has not been easy for me, because my creative process is more intuitive than organized.

Ken Swinson gently hangs his prints to dry, each one a testament to his care, patience, and the thoughtful rhythm of his creative process.

Advice would you give the aspiring artist?

If you can find a mentor, learning from their experience can help you avoid some common mistakes young artists make.

Most challenging thing about being an artist?

Balancing the commercial and creative part of being an artist is very difficult. I have to make an income to take care of myself and maintain my studio, but I can be scared to take risks with my work—with the fear that it won’t sell. At the same time, I know that taking risks and experimenting is what makes art so interesting. 

The most rewarding? 

I have had a good life as an artist. I love the work I do, and am both grateful and proud of what I have done. I am always learning new things and meeting interesting people. My dream was to be an artist, and I’m living my dream!

Ken Swinson preparing to glaze bowls he made for the annual Empty Bowl event, where artists raise funds for local food banks. Each piece is crafted with care, giving back to the community that he says has given him so much.

What is art as a personal experience?

Art is extremely personal—going back to the challenges of art: I put my heart and soul into my work. I have dedicated my life to it. When I share my work with the public, I feel very vulnerable. The work is a part of me. 

Ken Swinson’s hands carve a woodblock, each precise cut carrying a piece of his heart and soul, a testament to the dedication he pours into every work.

What is love in art?

I think the art I create is my gesture of love to the world. I like to think that my art is my love song to my community, who has been so nurturing and supportive of me. 

Late night in his studio, Ken Swinson sketches a bird. The first gesture of a piece he will later carve into a woodblock — a heartfelt “love song” to his community, reflecting the care and gratitude he pours into every work.

What is happiness and sadness in art?

I have sad moments, and sometimes have to fight depression. I have found that the act of creating art helps me to feel better.  My greatest hope for my work is that someone having a bad day would look at it and it helps to make them feel happy! 

Ken Swinson’s art radiates joy, each piece seeming to have a life of its own — a reflection of his hope that even on a bad day, his work can bring a smile.

Art as a way of life is …?

I feel like my life is rich because art has been a part of everything I do. I know that everyone can’t make the same kind of commitment to art that I have, but I hope everyone can make some room for art and creativity in their life, because it does bring a lot of joy and meaning.

A notecard hanging on the board shows two circles — your comfort zone and where magic happens. Ken Swinson believes that making room for art and creativity often means stepping beyond the familiar, bringing joy, meaning, and richness to everyday life.

What is your “why”?

I have no choice—I am compelled to create.

Ken Swinson’s smile carries the warmth and joy that define his art.

What story does your art carry?

I think the story of my art is tied to my life as an artist.  The artists journey and search for himself combined with the culture of the region that adopted and nurtured the artist.

Favorite quote or saying you can share?

I’m doing a lot of work on organization in my studio and have been meditating on the saying, “Plan your work and work your plan”.

To continue exploring Ken’s world and the art he brings to life, the best way to reach him is through https://www.kenswinson.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and Facebook. For in-person visits, catch him during Final Fridays at the Pendelton Center in Cincinnati where he has a studio or schedule an appointment at his studio in historic Washington Hall in Old Washington, KY.