Sean Kenney
New York-born, Amsterdam-based artist, creating large-scale sculptural works, public art, and portraiture for over 20 years.
My work explores nature, color, human connection, and the tension between rigid textural shapes and the softness and tenderness of life.
How I work
I believe that my work has to feel alive somehow and connect with you. Every project starts out as a drawing, most end up with serious engineering inside, and in between it all is the wonderful process of pressing together every last piece by hand. I am a structured and logical person, but also very silly and playful… so what better medium than a primary-colored toy based on straight lines and math?
Exhibitions
For nearly 15 years, my five major touring exhibits have visited over 100 cities around the world, drawing millions of visitors to botanical gardens, natural history museums, and science centers. My newest exhibitions are hands-on experiences that put visitors inside the creative process, while my outdoor exhibits present bold colorful forms against the serene landscape of nature.
COMMISSIONS
Over 500 commissions for public institutions, private collectors, celebrities, high-net-worth individuals, and over 100 corporations including Target, Honda, FAO Schwarz, Marriott, Chase, Sony BMG, United Airlines, and Samsung. Collections held across the US, Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia.
Recognition
The New York Times, Smithsonian, NPR, BBC Arts, de Standaard, NHK 日本放送協会, NOS Jeugdjournaal, Forbes, The Washington Post, CNN, ABC World News, and many more. Permanent display at The LEGO Group’s global headquarters in Billund, Denmark. Guest judge, LEGO Masters (Season 1, UK). World’s first LEGO Certified Professional (2005-2019). Author of nine Macmillan children’s books.
selected Press
Smithsonian Magazine — “Kenney has perfected his ability to capture the essence of different species”
ABC News — “A way to humanize animals, reveal our connection to nature, and … to inspire”.
My Modern Met — “A fascinating journey through our natural world”
Vox — “Sean Kenney’s works have incredible complexity”
Vogue — “Bound to make visitors stare”
Slate — ”surprising realism and the polish and refinement that belie their source material”
PBS Arts – “Beautiful mosaics” and “thoughtful sculptures”
The LEGO Group — “A talented artist” “further celebrating the expression of creativity”
The New York Times — “the exhibition demonstrates what a talented grown-up can do with LEGO”
