Kendra Frorup, an associate professor of art and design at the University of Tampa, is showcasing her latest body of work in “Roots, Return, and the Weight of Memory” at the Crisp-Ellert Art Museum, part of Flagler College. The exhibition, which runs from January 20th to March 28th, 2026, delves into themes of home, migration, and the complexities of cultural identity, drawing deeply from Frorup’s Afro-Caribbean heritage.
A Journey Through Afro-Caribbean Roots
Frorup’s art is a vibrant tapestry woven from her experiences growing up in The Bahamas and her subsequent travels. The exhibition features mixed-media assemblages and sculptures that incorporate a diverse range of materials, including coconut crowns, found objects, cast metal and concrete, and printmaking techniques. These materials are not merely aesthetic choices; they are integral to her exploration of how culture shapes artistic expression and personal identity. Frorup describes the exhibition as an “ongoing exploration of Caribbean material culture and diasporic identity,” aiming to evoke “themes of home, migration, and the balance between leadership and care.”
Key Highlights of the Exhibition:
- Inspiration: Deeply rooted in the artist’s Afro-Caribbean heritage and experiences in The Bahamas.
- Mediums: Features mixed-media assemblages, sculptures, and printmaking.
- Materials: Utilizes a unique array of materials such as coconut crowns, found objects, metal, and concrete.
- Themes: Explores concepts of home, migration, cultural identity, leadership, and care.
- Artist’s Background: Kendra Frorup is an Associate Professor of Art and Design at the University of Tampa and a Fulbright Scholar.
An Artist with a Rich Background
Frorup’s artistic journey is marked by significant achievements and a robust academic career. She holds an MFA in sculpture from Syracuse University and has exhibited her work internationally, including in the United States, the Caribbean, France, and Puerto Rico. Notably, the National Gallery of the Bahamas hosted her mid-career retrospective, “The Whimsical Collector,” in 2022. Her dedication to her craft and cultural heritage was further recognized with a Fulbright Scholarship in 2025, allowing her to partner with the University of The Bahamas.
The Crisp-Ellert Art Museum, a venue dedicated to showcasing diverse artistic talent, provides an ideal space for Frorup’s evocative works. The museum, established in 2007, actively engages with local and international artists, as well as Flagler College’s own faculty and students, fostering a vibrant arts community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the theme of Kendra Frorup’s exhibition “Roots, Return, and the Weight of Memory”?
The exhibition explores themes of home, migration, cultural identity, and the balance between leadership and care, drawing heavily on Frorup’s Afro-Caribbean heritage and experiences.
What kind of materials does Kendra Frorup use in her artwork?
Frorup employs a variety of materials, including coconut crowns, found objects, cast metal and concrete, and printmaking techniques, to create her mixed-media assemblages and sculptures.
Where is the “Roots, Return, and the Weight of Memory” exhibition located and when is it on display?
The exhibition is on view at the Crisp-Ellert Art Museum at Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida, from January 20th to March 28th, 2026.