SEPTEMBER 26th OPENING RECEPTION

SHOWING TILL Nov. 29th

“Hello Up There”

Kenneth Vegotsky: A Legacy of Whimsy and Complexity

Upon his passing in February 2025, Kenneth Vegotsky left behind a treasure trove of creativity and insight, encapsulated in thousands of drawings, collages, and paintings. In his written will, Kenneth entrusted his nephew, RJ Calabrese—an artist based in Clinton, NJ—with the immense responsibility of collecting and curating an exhibition of his work. This seemingly unimaginable task of sorting through Kenny’s extensive oeuvre became more manageable with the invaluable collaboration of Alex Maxwell from Gallery Under Main.

As RJ began the process of gathering and organizing Kenneth's creations, he quickly realized he had embarked on a profound journey of discovery, gaining deeper insight into his uncle's unique psyche and the fervent energy that fueled his artistic endeavors. Through the labyrinth of artworks, RJ and Alex unearthed complexities that contribute to Kenneth Vegotsky—a passionate creator infused with a delightful air of whimsy and humor.

For over 50 years, Kenneth dedicated himself to the obsessive creation of drawings and collage works, addressing a diverse array of themes and topics. His pieces frequently engaged with popular culture, art history, and political commentary, reflecting the world around him while inviting viewers to explore their own interpretations. Notably, Kenneth was not one to settle for a single idea; he engaged in a continual process of revision, producing iterations of his concepts with subtle variations that speak to his evolving thoughts.

Central to Kenneth's practice were his notebooks, where he meticulously recorded ideas that would, at times, translate into visual forms. These writings provide a testament to his creative process—fragments of thoughts that captured his imaginative spirit, whether they blossomed into completed artworks or remained as untapped potential. This exhibition of 14 works, curated with care, seeks to honor Kenneth Vegotsky’s profound artistic journey—an exploration of complexity, passion, and an enduring sense of wonder. Through the efforts of Gallery Under Main and RJ Calabrese, Kenneth’s legacy will be celebrated, inviting audiences to engage with his vibrant, whimsical world. 

-Written by RJ Calabrese