Kent Smith (b.  Decatur, IL. 1964-) is a Chicago-based artist who is focused mainly on abstract, pop and figurative art. Kent’s work, largely acrylic paint and charcoal, reflects his social conscience, by way of his love of music, mid century advertising, and cartoon animals. His delightful, sometimes subversive, sense of humor (all his puns are unapologetically intended) yields images that brashly nod to pop culture but are infused with his fresh sensibility and a whole lot of color.
As a commercial artist, Kent got his start in retail promotion, drawing memorable images for Trader Joe’s, People’s Market, Wild Oats and Lucky’s Market. His work has recently been shown at The Outtaspace in Berwyn and The Beverly Art Walk this past summer.
“First and foremost, I hope my work entertains. If my Soda Bear and I can do that, maybe saving the planet will come next.” — Kent Smith, 2021