100 Photographs by Andrew Kilgore

Walton Arts Center presents retrospective exhibition of works by renowned portrait photographer

Walton Arts Center is showcasing the career and advocacy of Fayetteville-based portrait photographer Andrew Kilgore through a major retrospective of the artist’s work in the Center’s Joy Pratt Markham Gallery, on display through March 19. The exhibition features 100 portraits of Arkansans curated by Kathy P. Thompson from Kilgore's archive of over 750,000 images.

Kilgore’s work is diverse, equitable and inclusive, often capturing the lives of those who are “unseen” in society over his 53-year career. In addition to his studio work, historically Andrew has intentionally sought out diverse subjects to photograph to ensure his fine art images reflect the underrepresented diversity of those who live in the state of Arkansas.

His cumulative work fosters a sense of belonging for all who sat in front of his camera and those who view the resulting photographs. Kilgore will also be awarded the 2023 Governor’s Arts Award for Lifetime Achievement in March at a ceremony in Little Rock.

“I photograph these people because I love them,” said Kilgore. “When I open my eyes and my heart to someone whose vulnerability has so clearly defined their very being, I experience the deepest level of ineffable connection. And the best word that I have for that profound experience of connection is love.” The free exhibition is open 10am to 2pm on weekdays through March 19. The Joy Pratt Markham Gallery also opens one hour prior to and during most WAC performances.

There are also audio components to the exhibition, curated by KUAF 91.3FM National Public Radio, which allows patrons to learn more about select photos in the exhibition. Links to these audio segments and interviews are available on the Walton Art Center’s website.

Additionally, there will be a creative conversation with Kilgore at 6 pm on Friday, March 10, that will focus on his career and his advocacy of the unseen, different, misunderstood and marginalized. This conversation will take place in Walton Arts Center’s Walker Atrium and is free and open to the public, but tickets are required. Reservations may be made online at waltonartscenter.org or by calling the box office at (479) 443-5600.