Fraternal twins James (right) and Timothy (left) Keny, owners of the Keny Galleries in the German Village neighborhood of Columbus, have been tireless advocates for Ohio artists. The fruits of their labors are evident not only by the works shown in their galleries since they opened in 1979, but also in their support and promotion of Ohio artists’ works through extensive and ongoing collaboration with other galleries and museums, including curatorial work, research, and publishing articles and catalogues about the work on display. Their success in showcasing Ohio artists and their works is exceptional; however, even more remarkable has been their enthusiasm for sharing their expertise with others who have brought Ohio’s art treasures to audiences around the state and across the country.

Lydia Arrasmith, curator and registrar of the Canton Museum of Art, has said of the Kenys, “Personally, I think they’re a treasure in Ohio . . . They’ve helped us in so many ways – with exhibitions, with appraisals and finding paintings for our permanent collections.”

James and Timothy were born in Columbus, and but for brief absences to attend out of state colleges, they have always lived in Ohio. Timothy received his BA in art history from Colgate University and his MBA from the Ohio State University. James received his BA in art history and economics from Harvard University and was an Ohio Humanities Scholar. Art lovers, the Keny brothers have been able to share their passion and their enthusiasm throughout the state and the nation. For all that they have done as advocates of art and Ohio artists, Ohioana is privileged to celebrate James and Timothy Keny with its highest honor, the Ohioana Career Award.

Website of the Keny Galleries in Columbus