Kurt Gohde

Kurt Gohde is a Professor of Art at Transylvania University and holder of the Bingham Endowed Chair. He joined the institution in 1998 and specializes in installation, video, sculpture, photography, and digital imaging. His work emphasizes community engagement, often collaborating with local artists and organizations to create transformative public art projects. Gohde holds an MFA from Syracuse University (1998) and a BFA from New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University (1995).

• Career Highlights: Over 25 years of teaching at Transylvania, fostering student creativity through experiential learning.
• Notable Projects: The Lexington Love Letter tattoo project with poet Bianca Spriggs and collaborator Kremena Todorova.
• Community Impact: Pioneered student exhibitions in Lexington venues like the Kentucky Theatre and Wingspan Gallery.

Research interests focus on the intersection of art, community, and social justice. His works explore public space transformation, marginalized voices, and collaborative artistic practices. He has exhibited widely across Lexington and beyond, integrating local narratives into his installations.

Recognition includes the Henry Clay Ambassador Award (2012), Bingham Teaching Fellowship (2005), and multiple grants supporting community-based art initiatives. His teaching philosophy prioritizes problem-solving and experiential learning, preparing students for professional and graduate opportunities.

• Grants & Awards: Over 13 years of Jones Faculty Development Grants, LexArts Community Arts Project Grants, and others funding collaborative projects.

Gohde’s lab includes ongoing partnerships with Lexington’s arts community, manifesting through projects like the North Limestone revitalization efforts and homeless community collaborations. He also runs an experimental ice cream enterprise, blending culinary creativity with art education.