Art lovers in Moline are invited to experience “New and Improved” by Kent Broadbent at the Black Hawk College ArtSpace Gallery. Running through April 4, 2025, this showcase allows visitors to witness Broadbent’s vibrant expressionist lines and rich textures. The artist’s journey, shaped by a cancer diagnosis in 2010, led him to rediscover his passion for art, resulting in stunning works using cold wax and oil. Attendees can also meet Broadbent at a closing reception and artist talk on April 2nd from 4 to 6 PM, with light refreshments provided.
Kent Broadbent’s life has woven together the threads of agriculture and artistry. Growing up on his family’s historic farm in Annawan, purchased in 1865, Broadbent nurtured an early love for art, thanks to his mother’s encouragement. Despite attending a high school without art classes, he found his way into local night classes, joined by his mother. His passion for creativity accompanied him to Illinois State University, where he studied psychology but remained committed to artistic pursuits. Returning to farm life, Broadbent has managed to balance his farming responsibilities with a continuing dedication to drawing and creating art, enriching both his heritage and community.
Kent Broadbent said, “Every new piece of my artwork starts with a line. Maybe it is an old No. 2 pencil or maybe a stick of charcoal. That line is the begin of a new work. I never know where the line will end up. I add new layers and remove partial layers to reveal the history of the layers. I use various instruments to paint with. I incorporate different materials such as sand, pigment, paper, etc. to add texture. The fun of creating is going from a single line to a bold and vibrant abstract piece of work. I hope that when people see my finished work, they find the joy that I lived creating the work of art. There is no deep philosophical thought behind my work, but I hope people just lose themselves in my work.”
For more information about exhibits in the ArtSpace Gallery, email [email protected] or visit Black Hawk College Art and Design. The ArtSpace Gallery is located on the first floor of Building 4 at the Quad-Cities Campus, 6600 34th Ave., Moline.
