From the Vault: Jin Kam

Jin Kam (1953) was born and raised in China during a time of Cultural Revolution, Kam however continued to follow his passion for art. In 1976 Kam was admitted to Zhejiang Academy of Fine Art in Hangzhou. During his studies, he immersed himself in contemporary art emerging from the west, taking inspiration from artists like Rothko, DeKooning, and Kline. Kam was drawn to the use of expressive movement and color within their compositions. In 1989, Jin Kam pursued his graduate studies at the United States International University in California. While attending the university, his appreciation for Jazz and Blues developed. Kam sought to visually interpret the emotions that was provoked through this music. He did so with the use of energetic brushstrokes, intentional use of color, juxtaposed with the meticulous detail within the subjects he paints. Kam’s work has since been exhibited both nationally and internationally, and is held in several permanent collections such as the Steinway and Sons, and the Charlie Parker Museum. His work has also been associated with the Miles Davis Estate, Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation, and the Leonard Bernstein Education Through the Arts Fund.