Meet Ken Gentle "Blacktop" -  A Contemporary Southern Folk Artist

Many years ago, KEN GENTLE known as "BLACKTOP"    saw several paintings by Mose Tolliver, and recognized that art is not as complex or as simple as it's made out to be, but rather it comes from your heart, not from your mind. This statement defines his view and interpretation of Art.

"In my paintings, I love to express imagination and simplicity with fun images which will make you smile and laugh. Whimsical birds, small animals and rural southern landscapes are my favorite subjects. I have a passion for abstract interpretation whether it is in black and white or by using vibrant colors."

Southern Folk and Outsider Artist - "Blacktop" - grew up in Alabama, but now lives in Georgia. He is a self-taught artist who began his art as a way to express the visions and dreams he has experienced growing up in the South. He has been painting most of his life using watercolors and acrylics. Most of his paintings start with a base of "black tar" on wood, then comes the colors (hence the name "Blacktop"). His paintings have stories to tell which reflect an abstract rural South full of paradoxes and contrasts. He is attracting attention as an emerging Southern Artist to collect.
At Atlanta's Folk Fest and other art shows across the country his paintings continue to spark considerable interest. His paintings can be found in galleries, businesses and many private collections.

Ken "Blacktop" Gentle is proudly represented by WICKWIRE fine art/folk art in Hendersonville, North Carolina.