The first art show and sale presented by October Gallery was for artist Tom Mckinney in 1985.
Tom McKinney, Visual Artist
Written by Juanita Frederick for Paint Magazine
Silkscreen printer, illustrator, designer, prolific water colorist and portrait artist, Tom Mckinney has made quite a name for himself with his rich portrayals of the Black community. You just may own one of his memorable pieces in your living room, such as “Give Mommy Some Sugar” or “Beauty of Color.”
Studying at the John Hussian School of Art and the Philadelphia College of Art as well as visiting the Earl Theatre in Philadelphia prompted the paintings of Dizzy Gillespie, Duke Ellington, Eubey Blake and other jazz legends. With his musical paintings, McKinney extends an invitation for all to hear and feel the music of jazz greats.
McKinney captures the reality of events. He proudly states, “I am a day to day realist. I like to observe people when they are unguarded. I like to capture the real person.” He also explained we may see someone laughing throughout their day with their public persona and later, you may view them sitting alone quietly thinking. Now, this is when they connect to their true person he said.
A number of Goodnight’s paintings have been in solo exhibits and group shows such as the Gallery Tanner, Los Angeles; Hallway Gallery, Georgetown; and Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts. McKinney also was chosen to do the 1989 Black history calendar for Atena Insurance Company in Hartford Connecticut. He has also traveled to Europe to exhibit for the Armed Forces in West Germany.
McKinney’s works have been featured in many publications around the country and represented in innumerable corporate, institutional, and private collections. His works have also appeared on television sitcoms such as “Frank’s Place”, “The Bill Cosby Show” and “Desmond” to name a few.
McKinney focuses on the subjects he paints because his intent is to show the strength and unity of Black people. McKinney understands that people will interpret each of his pieces differently; and he invites all to share in his artwork, life experiences.
