Contraire Art

Okay, I looked at some artist’s websites, those big fancy words. I just like to make things–that’s it. And I like to sell the things I make–so I can make some more things. How complicated is that?

Cary Kent: Tyler, Texas

1957-1967
Pastel portraits, wood carvings, china paintings, etc.

1967-1970
First to make and sell Tiffany type lamps again on a national basis, restarting the fad. Went by Kraft Lighting before incorporating as Kent Industries.

1971-1974
Full time artist and sculptor, published a glass handbook, made windows. Invited to the 1973 Edom Art Festival

Sample pieces from 1973

One of the strangest things I discovered along the way is how little is known about color and color perception. Some animals even see colors we can’t see. What are those anyway? 

1974-2005
Made and sold stained and beveled decorative glass panels for homes on a national basis, glass for Ruby Tuesday restaurants, churches, door companies and antique shops, ultimately making 14 acres, more than anyone else. Recognized for my bird and flower windows, a strong visual style developed in a series of paired windows, defined by an oval in the middle of the panel containing various nature themes.

Self Portrait about 1985

2006-Jan.
Shut down on glass and decided to restart my art career. Before midnight had developed the “Contraire” way of painting. Everything just jelled. I thought, “this can’t be right…maybe it’s just a freak of nature. I’ve got to do some more to see if it’s possible.” Did the 3rd or 4th one … and then…just couldn’t stop. What a thrill.