KURTIS WATKINS

NEWS • NEWS • NEWS!
First he gave us an initial view with KDWstore.com and
now he spells out his full vision with KurtisWatkins.com.
This young athlete of the arts is in prime form and expected
to do great things in the world of visual arts. Stay up to date
on all the the latest news by visiting regularly.

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News: May 2010
"Watkins featured in Young Black Professionals Guide"

http://ybpguide.com

News: April 2010
"Live Painting at the House of Art Gallery, Brooklyn"

Kurtis Watkins

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News: March 2010
"Digable Arts Festival"

"PRIDE"

News: February 2010
"Collections"

News: February 2010
"Watkins Originals Help to Raise Funds During the Heroines for Haiti Event"

News: Sneak Preview
"PRIDE"

(Coming Fall 2009)

"PRIDE"

News: JANUARY 2009
"BERLIN, PRAGUE, VIENNA"

Watkins travels abroad...

News: NOVEMBER 2008
"WATKINS FINAL APPEARANCE AT THE PHILADELPHIA ART EXPO"

CLICK BELOW FOR DETAILS

News: AUGUST 2008
"WATKINS WINS THE 2008 DO RIGHT MAN OF THE YEAR AWARD"

News: AUGUST 2008
"WATKINS IN ESSENCE MAGAZINE"

Watkins is featured in the August 2008 issue of Essence Magazine as a "2008 Do Right Man!" Purchase the magazine today and visit Essence.com for a complete profile on Kurtis.

Special thank you to Maya of Florida for her gracious nomination and to everyone who voted for Watkins online.

News: JULY 2008
"NEW ART EXHIBIT IN NJ"

Sunday, September 28, 2008
Hoboken Arts Festival, Hoboken, NJ
11:00am - 6:00pm, Washington Street
Directions/ Information: 201-420-2364

Kurtis Watkins

News: MAY 2008
"WATKINS ON MYSPACE"

View the myspace page that has everyone talking!
[Click the image below to visit the page]

News: APRIL 2008
"NEW SITE UPDATES COMING SOON"

With the addition of new works in color, many changes are taking place at KURTISWATKINS.COM. Look for new works in color, new offers, and more excitement in the weeks to come.

News: JANUARY 2008
"HAPPY MY YEAR!"
HAPPY MY YEAR!

It's more than a NEW year - this is YOUR YEAR!

IT'S YOUR TIME TO SHINE

What good is having something new, if you don't truly own it?

Take ownership of the year and make it YOURS!

So don't tell them happy new year,

tell them HAPPY MY YEAR!!!

News: DECEMBER 2007
"GRAMMY AWARD WINNING SINGER MARY J BLIGE OWNS A WATKINS ORIGINAL"

Kurtis Watkins and Mary J. Blige

Congratulations to Mary J Blige and all NEW owners in 2007
that made owning a WATKINS an exciting time in their life!
Look for 2008 to be another remarkable year with New works
of art, New Owners, and even more exciting surprises!

News: November 2007
"Philadelphia International Art Expo "

The Philadelphia International Art Expo was a new experience for everyone who follows WATKINS. The greatest element that caught everyone's attention was the new addition of beautiful works in color. Attendants took notice and responded with many new buyers of art becoming celebrated Owners of WATKINS Originals.

News: MAY 28, 2007
"RUTGERS UNIVERSITY HONORS KURTIS WATKINS WITH A COVER STORY"

Lori Varga RC'04, SCILS'04, does a truly remarkable job in capturing the life of visual artist Kurtis Watkins. The story is powerful, insightful, honest, and overwhelmingly inspirational. Read the story here.

News: APRIL 25, 2007
"NATION'S CAPITOL WELCOMES KURTIS WATKINS AND THE COLLECTIVE"

The Collective is at it again with Reflections II, bringing some of today's most influential national and international artists and their original work to Metropolitan D.C. Join rising star Kurtis Darryl Watkins along with Frank Frazier, Lisa Jones, Crystal Pittman, Larry "Poncho" Brown, Ernani Silva, Nyles Montgomery, Marien Criares, Machyar Gleuenta, Donna Turgeon, Deborah Brooks, Life Pieces To Masterpieces, Lisa Ward, Lynde Washington, Kyoko Endo, Deborah Shedrick and Buchi UpJohn at the National Music Center (http://the-gig.us/). Admission is $20 at the door, and the event will feature hors d'oeuvres by Catfish Fridays and live jazz by Bliss Ananda.

To learn more about the show and other Collective events, visit: www.acollectivevision.com. A portion of the proceeds for this event will go to Life Pieces to Masterpieces, a 501 (c)(3) organization located in Northeast Washington, D.C., that mentors African-American youth in at-risk communities through art. Learn more about Life Pieces at www.lifepieces.org.

Host: The Collective
Location: National Music Center (formerly the City Museum)
801 K Street NW, Washington, DC
When: Wednesday, April 25, 6:00pm
Phone: 888.727.6660

News: MARCH 2007
"KURTIS WATKINS APPLAUDED AT NEW YORK ARTEXPO"
Kurtis Watkins Applauded at Artexpo

Congratulations to all who attended the Artexpo and experienced over 30 outstanding originals face to face. This was a blockbuster event that will remain on the lips of everyone for years to come! Attendants were treated to a special digital presentation along with soft music, fresh fruits, cherry-red roses, free content, and a variety of exclusive extras.

"Kurtis Watkins was one of the only artists who presented a mastery of charcoal and black pastels. His presentation demonstrated a high degree of opulence and panache!"

The success of the show has led to a sharp increase in collectors, more commissions, and private showings. We welcome you to join in the celebration by sending congratulatory messages to the artist. Photographs of the exhibit are now available for viewing - and as always, ownership of a Watkins is always available for you.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE PHOTOGRAPHS

News: MARCH 1- MARCH 5, 2007
"KURTIS WATKINS IS COMING TO NYC"

DATES & TIMES
Thursday, March 1, 2007 (Trade Only)
10am – 6pm

Friday, March 2, 2007 (Trade Only)
10am – 6pm

Saturday, March 3, 2007
10am – 6pm

Sunday, March 4, 2007
11am – 6pm

Monday, March 5, 2007
10am – 2pm

LOCATION
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center
655 West 34th Street
New York, NY 10001
www.javitscenter.com

News: NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 26, 2006
"NEW ARTIST FEATURED AT THE MUSE GALLERY"
Admirer viewing "Uplifted 12"

Photograph: Everyone gathers closely to view the details of "UpLifted 12"

Muse Gallery
60th North Second Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 627-5310

Gallery Hours
Wed. - Sun. 12-5

The Muse Gallery (Philadelphia) received the opportunity to exhibit famed artist Kurtis Watkins in a new exhibit entitled "Small Works." More than 100 works of many regional and national artists adorn the new gallery walls. The exhibition inaugurates Muse Gallery’s move to their new location at 52 North Second St., still in Old City and next door to Arden Theatre. This exhibit will run from November 29 - December 26, 2006.

News: NOVEMBER 20, 2006
"NEW PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE PHILADELPHIA ART EXPO"
Table Display with Art and Roses

The excitement is still in the air over the amazing presentation and outstanding quality of the works of art.
Delicate red roses perched the tops of gorgeous original works of art and everywhere you looked you were delighted with
visual pleasure. Who could forget the giant red guestbook pen or the sheer amazement of viewing a Watkins Original face to face. Remember those works that seemed to jump out from the frame? Remember walking towards the exhibit and thinking I've never seen anything like this before!

Were you attracted to the bold, larger-than-life dynamic style of "The Family and the Gift?" Or was it the soft, subtle,
seductive tones of the two large panels that caught your eye? With these photographs I hope you will have the opportunity
to relive the excitement, wonder, and amazement of my works of art. These photographs represent a small portion of those that were taken and more will be posted shortly. Enjoy the experience!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE PHOTOGRAPHS

News: NOVEMBER 2006
"KURTIS WATKINS BECOMES A PUBLISHED ARTIST"
Kurtis Watkins is in this book

Publishing your works of art in a major print volume takes established artist years to accomplish. Yet Kurtis Watkins continues to shatter all boundaries with his talents. In August of 2006, Watkins was contacted by Mercer Redcross, (director of October Gallery), who was interested in publishing several works of the artist in his new print publication. "Connecting People with Art" was launched at the 21st Annual Philadelphia International Art Expo with an impressive host of prominent visual artist, curators, collectors, and a virtual who's who list of art aficionados. Containing 500 pages, this coffee table book boast such notables as Poncho Brown, Charles Bibbs, Jill Scott, Ernie Barnes, E.B. Lewis, former President William J. Clinton, Billy Dee Williams, and more. Details concerning purchasing the book can be found on www.octobergallery.com and http://www.welms.com/book/page3.html.

News: NOVEMBER 2006
"WATKINS INTRODUCES A SUPERIOR PRINT"
Closeup of the artist's Print, "Appreciation"

Always the innovator, Watkins has created a way to offer the greatest visual arts package for all new owners at the upcoming expo. One product that he is very excited to present is a new high-quality signed, numbered, and sealed lithographic print that will come complete with an official Certificate of Authenticity, an original poem that is created by the artist and inspired by the work, a personal bio, and a photograph of the artist in his studio. Any collector of high class art will tell you that the more information an artist presents with his work, the greater meaning and value the work will draw. Understanding this at such a young age in his career will position Watkins to have tremendous value in his earlier works. Many collectors have already taken such notice and expect his current offerings to follow the "double-three" rule (prints doubling in value in 3 years).

News: NOVEMBER 10, 11, 12, 2006
"MEET THE ARTIST AT THE PHILADELPHIA
INTERNATIONAL ART EXPO"
Ad for the P.I.A.E.

News: NOVEMBER 10, 11, 12, 2006
"WATKINS ENTERS THE PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL ART EXPO"
It is with great joy that we announce the entrance of esteemed visual artist Kurtis Watkins into the 21st Annual Philadelphia International Art Expo. This event represents one of the largest art expos in the nation and boast a yearly attendance of 30-40,000 eager buyers. Every year the expo draws in artist from around the globe and attract attendants from all over the nation. As a first time exhibitor, Watkins is very excited and has invited all of his supporters and clients to this event. Flyers, postcards, invitations, and more are all underway as Watkins prepares for the event that will catapult his career into the top tier of his profession.

Official Invite from Kurtis Watkins

News: April 29, 2006
"KURTIS WATKINS ENCOURAGES YOUNG ARTISTS FROM BROOKLYN, NY"
Written by Winston Monroe of Sesame Flyers International Inc.
http://www.sesameflyers.org/junenewsarticle3.htm:

On Saturday, April 29th, 2006 twenty-two junior high school students from Winthrop Beacon III Community Center and David Ruggles Middle School competed in an Art Gallery Competition sponsored by Visions of Pearls, a group of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. women working towards establishing a second graduate chapter in Brooklyn, NY. During the Winthrop Beacon III Community Center after school program and David Ruggles Middle School art program, students developed artwork based on the theme “When I look outside my window…” Students created images of Brooklyn which captured their blocks, schools, and neighborhoods. The intent of this theme was to not only challenge their creativity but to obtain insight into the way the community is perceived by our youth. The members of Visions of Pearls truly hope that the youth will be inspired to make the arts apart of their life while at the same time providing them a voice to the community.

This event not only highlighted visual arts but dance and poetry as well. While the judges deliberated, Kurtis Watkins a professional artist who received his Masters of Fine Arts from [Morgan State] University, spoke to young people about the arts and inspired them to continue creating beautiful art work. He presented the grand prize winner with one of his signature prints. Zaire, a spoken word poet, serenaded the audience with warm poetry inspired by the art competitions theme and the Winthrop Beacon III Community Center hip-hop intermediate boys dance group performed to Marios song “Just a friend.” [...]

Attendants viewing contestants' art	Zaire (right) in an exciting conversation
Host addresses the anxious students	Kurtis setting up visual display
Kurtis applauds students' artistic efforts	Winning artist with her mother and prizes
Organizers congratulate the happy winner	Every student received special recognition

News: JANUARY/ FEBRUARY / MARCH 2006
"A Thousand More Reasons Why"
Kurtis Watkins new prints available for ownership

Introducing one thousand reasons why owning a Watkins marks an exciting time in your life!

Watkins announces an amazing special offer to begin this tremendous new year. Two works of art, Embrace and Appreciation, are now available as limited edition HQ lithographic prints. Each print is in an edition of 500 and is signed and numbered by the artist. The prints will ship in January 2006 but early reservations are already being made for these exceptional works of art.

What other advancements will the new year bring for Kurtis Watkins? 2006 will have the artist creating more exciting works and expanding his client base. Watkins is already discussing plans to release a series of new works in 2007 and talks are mounting about the release of an original book of poetry which will contain beautiful works of art, engaging short stories, and Watkins' own personal touch of passion and inspiration.

News: NOVEMBER 2-3, 2005
"An Evening of the Arts"

How do you celebrate the release of a new website -- with a party of course! Now if the website is an art site, then the party has to be an art party. On November 2 and November 3, Kurtis Watkins created "An Evening of the Arts," an art party that featured works of art from KDWstore.com and the new site KurtisWatkins.com. The event was held in the now famous apartment 201 off the campus of Morgan State University. With an overwhelming turnout on both nights, the event was a huge success and gave a strong impression to everyone who arrived.

Attendees were greeted on the second floor with a lavish red carpet flowing from the elevator and an elegant two-dimensional portrait bust which stated, "Welcome to an Evening of the Arts." The lobby contained three large works of art for viewers to discuss while the red carpet eventually led them to the entrance of apartment 201. Once inside, sensory overload kicked in as the smooth sounds of Mary J. Blige caressed the airwaves, the intoxicating smell of fresh fruits and baked breads tickled your nose, and the spectacular visual display of art sent you in 1,000 different directions at once. For two nights the student body, faculty, and friends of Morgan State University and the greater Baltimore community received the opportunity to meet and speak with the artist in a uniquely casual atmosphere.

However, with all of the celebrations surrounding "An Evening of the Arts," the event was bittersweet for all in attendance. On November 25 Kurtis will be leaving Baltimore to pursue greater opportunities in the New York, New Jersey, and Philadelphia regions. Although everyone is a little sad to see him leave Baltimore, we all know that we will certainly see Kurtis Darryl Watkins again.

News: NOVEMBER 1, 2005
"Kurtis Watkins Launches www.KurtisWatkins.com!"

Kurtis Watkins, "The Family and the Gift"

KDWstore.com showed us that Kurtis Darryl Watkins (KDW) has style, creativity, and a good eye for color in his paintings, digital works, and fashion designs. Underlining that sediment was the website itself which presents KDW's excellent web design skills. While still receiving rave reviews from the first site, ten months later KDW transforms into his full name and emerges with KurtisWatkins.com.

Without question, KurtisWatkins.com places the artists at the top of his game in an ambiance of class, maturity, and sharp sophistication. Beautiful black and white works of art line pearl gallery walls draped in rare luxurious fabrics. Galleries I and II along with several other areas boasts magnificent Baroque fountains that continuously pour rivers of running water as you view the opulent works of art. Many areas of KurtisWatkins.com are reminiscent of KDWstore.com, yet Watkins continues to push the envelope by creating impressive visual experiences for his viewers.

With the introduction of poetry, Watkins adds another art form to his already endless list of creative talents. Nevertheless, the greatest draw of KurtisWatkins.com can be summed up in one word - ownership! For the first time ever, Watkins is offering his stunning original works of art for ownership along with high quality prints soon to come. Owning a Watkins Original is now as easy as 3 simple steps so everyone is encouraged to purchase their favorites as soon as possible.

In 2006 Watkins plans to merge KDWstore.com with KurtisWatkins.com in order to house ALL of his works under one roof. At the rate that Watkins creates, and with his private collection set to be released in 2007, KurtisWatkins.com will certainly be one extremely large roof!

News: OCTOBER 1, 2005
"Reunite, Reconnect, Reminisce"
The Rutgers College Educational Opportunity Fund Program presents the 36th anniversary alumni reunion banquet for the class of 1969 through 2005. Special congratulations to Ted and Victoria for their purchase of a Watkins Original, Raymond for his new ownership of "Fish-eyed Fool," and thanks to everyone that supported the exhibit at the reunion. "Embrace" photographed with new owners.

News: MAY 2005
"Art Insiders Buzz About KDW's New Plan"
If it takes a great visual artist to work in color, then it takes a genius to work in black and white. Without the emotional draw and subconscious cues of color in a work of art, an artist must rely on pure content and professional execution of the medium to engage the viewer. The black pastel and charcoal drawings of Kurtis Watkins not only engage the viewer, but the powerful impression that is given remains with the viewer long after the work has been seen.

The absence of color in a work of art can be a huge risk for a novice, however Kurtis Watkins triumphantly succeeds again in a way that compliments and challenges his previous works. His new site, www.KurtisWatkins.com, is scheduled to launch in November and feature an entirely new collection of art work in pure black and white.

News: FEBRUARY 20, 2005
"MD Governor Salutes Morgan Grad Students "

On February 20th, members of the Morgan State Graduate Student Association (MSGSA), Kurtis Watkins, Muriel Dow, and Ramisi Chaka were saluted by the Governor of Maryland, Robert L. Ehrlich and Lieutenant Governor, Michael S. Steele, the first African American elected to statewide office. The students were congratulated on aiding Congressional Black Caucus members and Maryland State Delegate Clarence “Tiger”Davis in the organization of the 5th Annual Buffalo Soldiers Memorial Banquet in Annapolis, MD. Watkins, an aspiring artist, designed advertisements and assisted with marketing the event with Dow who raised nearly $15,000 in sponsorships. Chaka chaired the college and high school student essay contest, which gave away scholarships of $450, $350 and $200 to winners [...]

From Left to Right: Mrs. Muriel Toson-Dow, Muriel M.Dow, Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Ramisi Chaka, Founder MSU Graduate Student Association, Delegate Clarence “Tiger” Davis and award-winning visual artist Kurtis Watkins .

News: JANUARY 2005
"Kurtis Darryl Watkins stars as KDW in his latest feature, www.KDWstore.com"

Kurtis Watkins, "After Anticipation"

Take a tremendous splash of color, a dab of creative talent, a touch of multicultural flair, and you have the ingredients for a one of a kind artistic experience. Place it all in a sleek modern art gallery with marble floors, Italian fountains, and an extensive giftshop and you now have KDWstore.com.

Designed with the pure intent of capturing a unique gallery experience, KDWstore.com allows you to walk through an art gallery that features KDW's most prized works of art. Upon entering the gallery you are immediately greeted by a lovely hostess who persuades you in the right direction to Gallery I. Inside any of the four galleries you get a sense that you stand alone in this exciting art space and that the works have in some way been exhibited specifically for you.

Entering the Giftshop opens up a whole new world of couture fashion, complimentary images, an entire exhibit catalog, and an exclusive look at several works of art in a Featured Gallery. With surprises around every corner, the About section begins with a brief overview of the artist, the art work, and the mission statement, yet extends to an extraordinary narrative in "Up Close and Personal." The About section also includes an original gold lion sculpture that rest on a marble pedestal.

KDWstore.com is a modern marvel and is sure to attract many visitors to the galleries. With a free admission, gorgeous atmosphere, stunning artworks, and many hidden amenities, all of the ingredients are here for an unforgettable web experience.
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