Kambel Smith: The “Cardboard Genius” Redefining Artistic Boundaries
In the heart of Historic Germantown, a neighborhood steeped in rich history, an extraordinary artistic talent is gathering attention. Kambel Smith, known affectionately as the “Cardboard Genius,” is captivating audiences with his innovative sculptures crafted primarily from humble cardboard. His latest exhibition showcases a collection of approximately a dozen intricate pieces, prominently featuring recreations of iconic Philadelphia landmarks.
Smith, now residing in Reading, Pennsylvania, has dedicated his artistic endeavors to the intricate portrayal of urban architecture. From the vibrant Chinatown Friendship Gate to the storied Ben Franklin Bridge, each piece serves as a testimony to his remarkable vision and talent. Visitors to the exhibit are often left in awe, marveling at how Smith can transform everyday materials into stunning works of art that resonate deeply with those familiar with Philadelphia’s landscape.
One visitor aptly remarked “Incredible,” during a meet-the-artist event, underscoring the profound impact of Smith’s work. Among his sculptures, Smith cites the Sydney Opera House as a personal favorite due to its unique architectural form. “It’s a cool-looking shape,” he said, reflecting the enthusiasm that drives his creative process.
Kambel Smith first gained recognition six years ago when CBS News Philadelphia chronicled his fledgling journey as an artist. Despite the challenges associated with being a self-taught creator, what truly sets Smith apart is his unconventional approach to sculpture-making; he eschews traditional measuring tools, relying solely on his keen visual acuity. “You can see him running programs in his head almost, on how to put stuff together,” stated his father, Lonnie Smith. This innate ability is dubbed a “superpower” by Lonnie, who attributes it to Kambel’s autism diagnosis early in his life.
The current exhibit, titled “Cardboard Genius,” has been met with accolades from artists and architects alike. Each cardboard structure is infused with astonishing details, including miniature representations of PATCO Speedline train cars integrated into the Ben Franklin Bridge model. “I saw him do the trains, and it took him maybe 20 minutes to do the trains,” Lonnie recalled, illustrating Kambel’s remarkable speed and precision.
Beyond the confines of this exhibit, Kambel’s artistic pursuits continue to flourish. Notably, his towering cardboard rendition of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest structure, has reached an impressive height of 27 feet. Such ambitious projects have raised the bar for what can be achieved with seemingly unassuming materials. Chris Byrne, the curator of “Cardboard Genius,” remarked on Kambel’s ability to transport two-dimensional visuals into three-dimensional realities, a transformation that many find truly brilliant.
Intriguingly, Lonnie shared that Kambel often dreams of the buildings he later replicates, encouraging an open dialogue between father and son about these visions. “Sometimes he sees buildings in his dreams,” he said, expressing his eagerness to hear Kambel share these imaginative experiences. This artistic communication not only fosters a deeper connection between them but also showcases the broader potential within individuals on the autism spectrum.
“Through art, Kambel has found a voice,” Lonnie said. “He communicates with people about his art better than he communicates about anything.” This profound connection exemplifies the hidden gifts within individuals with autism, emphasizing the need for awareness and appreciation of diverse forms of expression. It serves as a reminder that brilliance can often emerge from the most unexpected places if given the opportunity to shine.
“Cardboard Genius” will be on display at the Historic Germantown until the end of June, welcoming guests Thursdays through Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. This exhibition not only celebrates Kambel’s artistic prowess but also embodies the spirit of inclusion and understanding that is paramount in the appreciation of art.
In a world where creativity often confronts barriers, Kambel Smith stands as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that the essence of art lies not solely in the medium but in the vision and heart of the creator behind it.
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