Kauffman Southbound

Music is Community captures the vibrant energy of how music and art connect people and communities in a swirling, abstract digital collage. Two figures, perhaps representing distinct groups, anchor the composition, their forms connected by the instruments, musical notes, and colorful abstract shapes surrounding them. This vibrant collage is a playground of visual wonder, a layered exploration of music and art that sparks curiosity and a sense of community at every turn. Elements overlap and blend with varying degrees of transparency, creating a sense of depth and complexity and inviting the eye to wander and discover hidden details. Like a half-remembered dream, the composition teases familiar forms – faces, instruments – yet presents them in a fragmented, almost surreal context, prompting the viewer to question and reimagine. The warm, glowing palette amplifies this sense of playful mystery, which casts a dreamlike aura over the entire scene. The interplay of recognizable objects and abstract shapes fuels the imagination, encouraging viewers to piece together their own narratives and find personal meaning within the intricate design. It’s a visual symphony designed to ignite curiosity, inspire a sense of wonder, and celebrate the unifying power of creative expression.

Bio:

Kansas City-based David D. Morris is a retired award-winning commercial and fine art photographer who has transitioned to abstract digital art. For decades, his advertising photography graced global campaigns for major clients like AMC Theaters and Hershey, appearing in publications such as the Kansas City Star and Martha Stewart magazine, even on Times Square billboards.

A graduate of Johnson County Community College’s fine art photography program, David and his wife previously owned Studio 2131. Beyond his artistic pursuits, David is deeply engaged in his community. He’s a former Shawnee City Councilman, Chairman of the Crossroads Arts District, and co-founder of Rebuilding Together Shawnee, earning accolades like the Urban Hero and Shawnee Citizen of the Year awards.

Currently, David’s abstract digital art, inspired by his love for jazz, is represented by the Cerbera Gallery. His intricate process involves weeks of digital development to visually interpret his auditory experiences. He also enjoys gardening, having been featured on the Shawnee Garden Tour multiple times, and remains an avid jazz enthusiast.

Instagram: @dmdakc1

Website:  https://www.dmdakc.com