"One Percent Inspiration": Joe McKendry Brings Art from Concept to Creation at Koskores Gallery

Thayer Academy's own Koskores Gallery has kicked off the school year with One Percent Inspiration, a new exhibit showcasing the work of Joe McKendry—an accomplished painter, illustrator, and faculty member at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). The exhibit, now open for viewing, runs through Oct. 25 and offers a "behind-the-scenes" glimpse into McKendry's creative process alongside pieces by RISD and Thayer students.

McKendry's work, featured in National Geographic, TIME, The New York Times, The London Times, and Vanity Fair, is known for its meticulous detail and thoughtful composition. This exhibit goes beyond showcasing finished works, focusing on the journey from the initial idea to the completed piece. Visitors will have the chance to see sketches, drafts, and research materials alongside the final artwork, giving insight into the unseen labor and process underpinning every creation.

Gallery Director Brynn Wartman highlighted the unique focus of this exhibit, noting, "Joe and I wanted to illuminate the process behind taking an idea and moving it from inspiration to final product. When visiting a museum or gallery, typically, the viewer sees only the finished and framed artwork. We wanted students to see all the work and effort necessary to arrive at that final framed piece."

In addition to McKendry's work, the exhibit displays pieces by three RISD students and two Thayer student artists, Elsa Landy '25 and Lauren Minichiello '25.

"We wanted to include the work of his RISD students so that Thayer students could see a path forward if they choose a future in the arts," shared Wartman. 

McKendry echoed this sentiment in his artist's statement: "The overall goal of this exhibit is for visitors to get a 'peek behind the curtain' and be reminded that finished artwork isn't always something that comes quickly or effortlessly." His teaching emphasizes preparation and exploration, with the RISD students' works demonstrating the research, critique, and revision process—a key element he hopes will inspire Thayer students.

On Tuesday, Oct. 1, the gallery hosted an opening reception where students could meet Joe McKendry and discuss the work. Faculty, staff, and student groups from both divisions stopped by to engage with the new exhibit. "Joe even met with one of our students to go over her art portfolio for college," Wartman shared.

One Percent Inspiration is not just an art exhibit but a powerful learning experience that aligns with the gallery's mission to serve as an extension of the classroom. "My hope is that the gallery will become a place where students can make cross-curricular connections, learn to look closely, and appreciate the visual arts," said Wartman. "Beyond giving our students unequaled access to working artists, perhaps these exhibits will inspire future museum or gallery visits."

The Karen & Ted Koskores Gallery, located on the lower level of Southworth Library, is open for viewing Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Admission is free, and parking is available next to the Center for the Arts. For more information, visit the gallery's webpage or contact Gallery Director Brynn Wartman directly (bwartman@thayer.org).