Opelousas, Louisiana native Ky Beaux might come from a small city, but he’s filled with big dreams. Beaux’s artistic pride in the culturally rich area of St. Landry Parish stems from greats like Amédé Ardoin and Clifton Chenier. Despite minimal artistic resources and exposure throughout Opelousas, Beaux used digital exposure and social media tools to his advantage.
As a full-time artist and graduate student, Beaux understands that high rewards come with high risks and a hefty workload. But, each time, he’s shown himself that he is built for this lifestyle. His latest sculptured piece, “Hurricane Strong,” made history as a permanent sculpture in downtown Alexandria in collaboration with the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce (CLRCC). To complete this project, Beaux used environmentally sustainable recycled materials that could withstand hurricane winds.
I interviewed Ky Beaux on his artwork, inspirations, relocation to New York City, and what to expect from his artistry in the future.
Quinn Foster: Your love for Hip-Hop is evident in your artwork, especially in “The Art Album” collection. Why is it essential to incorporate hip-hop and music culture into your work?
Ky Beaux: I use hip-hop to enhance the storytelling aspect of my art. I aim for my art to feel like you’re experiencing a song on a canvas. Hip-hop’s rhythm, energy, and raw emotion resonate deeply with me, and I want that to translate into my visual work. By incorporating music culture, I create a multisensory experience that speaks to a broader audience and bridges the gap between different artistic mediums.
QF: Being from Opelousas, Louisiana, how would you describe the contemporary art scene in South Louisiana and what are some challenges?
KB: The art scene in Louisiana is growing and diverse right now. We have a vibrant mix of styles and influences that reflect our rich cultural heritage. However, we face challenges such as a lack of leadership and guidance on how to succeed professionally in the art world. There’s also a need for more resources and opportunities for emerging artists to develop their skills and gain exposure.
QF: How has your upbringing in South Louisiana influenced your artwork?
KB: LOUISIANA ALL DAY EVERY DAY! Louisiana is ingrained in me—Opelousas STAND UP! My Louisiana roots are evident in my art, from the food and music to the lifestyle. I love being from South Louisiana! The unique culture, traditions, and everyday life of the region inspire me constantly. The vibrant colors, the rich textures, and the soulful energy of Louisiana are all elements that I incorporate into my work, creating pieces that are deeply personal and reflective of my heritage.
QF: Throughout your portfolio, you experiment with various mediums and colors. As a multidisciplinary artist, why is experimentation important to you and what are some impactful messages and themes that you share throughout your art?
KB: Experimentation is crucial because I don’t want to be confined to one style. It’s natural for me to change things up. By exploring different mediums and techniques, I keep my work fresh and dynamic. Key themes in my art include self-expression, Black pride, and religion. These themes are deeply personal to me and I strive to communicate powerful messages of identity, resilience, and spirituality through my art.
QF: What are some main similarities and differences between your sculpting and digital artwork? In addition, your recent sculpted work, “Hurricane Strong,” a piece dedicated to your mother, has gained statewide traction. What series of events transitioned your focus to sculpting?
KB: The process starts similarly with an idea on my iPad, but sculpting requires considering how the piece will be viewed in 3D real-life spaces, unlike a flat canvas. Both forms of art allow me to express my vision, but sculpting adds a tangible, physical dimension that engages viewers differently. “Hurricane Strong” came about when the Alexandria Museum accepted my proposal for a permanent piece shortly after I moved to NYC. It was my first sculpture, completed with a $25,000 budget, making me the youngest artist with a permanent piece at the museum. This project was a pivotal moment for me, showing me the power of three-dimensional art to tell personal and impactful stories.
QF: Your artwork has been included in several exhibitions throughout Louisiana and other states. Why is it vital for local and state governments and organizations to invest in the Arts in Louisiana?
KB: Investing in the arts is essential because Louisiana is rich in talent. Artists across the state deserve support to thrive and showcase their work. When governments and organizations invest in the arts, they not only foster creativity and cultural expression but also stimulate economic growth and community development. By supporting local artists, we can preserve our unique cultural heritage and inspire future generations.
QF: I see that you recently relocated to New York City. How has your move to New York City influenced or inspired your artistic and creative views and practices?
KB: New York City’s fast pace drives me to grind and hustle continuously. The city’s energy inspires me to keep working and improving my craft. Being surrounded by such a diverse and dynamic art scene pushes me to elevate my work and experiment with new ideas. The exposure to different cultures and artistic influences in NYC has broadened my perspective and enriched my creative process.
QF: What more can we expect from Ky Beaux in 2024-2025?
KB: Look out for “The kArter 2: Art Mixtape” coming soon. This project will continue to blend my love for music and visual art, offering a unique and immersive experience for my audience. Additionally, I plan to explore more large-scale sculptures and public art installations, bringing my work to new spaces and communities.
Ky Beaux is a contemporary artist from South Louisiana. His art explores digital and graphic realms, sculpture, photography and animations. His artwork has been featured on BET, the Stella Jones Gallery in New Orleans, Maison Freetown African American Museum in Lafayette, Alexandria Museum of Art in Alexandria, and other platforms.
