By: Marie Connolly

Marie Connolly — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 17:32:03 +0000

I came across your article and had to send in a comment -which I rarely do. As Kevin’s mom, few people have really ‘gotten’ the truth behind Kevin’s Rolling Exhibition as well as you have. Kevin’s efforts to establish himself as a serious artist are constantly diverted by the media’s efforts to set the art aside and focus on him. True, Kevin’s an amazing guy and the stories you read just give a glimpse, but it’s interesting that even 20/20 referred to him several times as “half a man”. My only negative comment relates to your statement “…the low viewpoint that characterises Connolly’s photos does not provide much to analyse in terms of originality”. This might be true if Kevin was looking through the viewfinder when he takes the picture, but he holds the camera low to the ground, usually while moving and looking the other way. The photos are taken by ’sense’ rather than sight. With this technique, Kevin gives people permission to look, so the photos reflect the honest gazes and stares that he’d never get if people knew he was not only looking but taking their picture. I’d say that’s pretty original. That being said, your article is the most accurate depiction of Kevin’s message that I’ve read so far, so kudos to you and I’ll make sure and share it with him.

Comments on: Rolling (the gaze)

By: Marie Connolly