mo makes things

The (very much belated) Adventures of Kenton Visser, Party Animal

gather around, children, and let me weave you the tiny tale of one (possibly) bearded illustrator and his insatiable appetite for partying…

[editor’s note: this is extremely late. i’ve been meaning to write this story months ago, but was rather busy being an utter mess. apologies to you, (possibly) bearded illustrator.]

his name was Kenton Visser. to the best of my knowledge, his name is still Kenton Visser, and, boy, could he party. internationally known for whoopin’ it up, cuttin’ a rug, and just generally havin’ a good time, Kenton’s partying abilities were unmatched. so, naturally, his party-senses were all a’ quiver when word of the About [blank] release/gallery party began to surface. i can’t speak directly for Kenton, but i imagine his reaction was something along the lines of, “showcased art with an accompanying shindig? sounds like my kind of bag, man.”

now, don’t get me wrong - Kenton was far more than just a master of ceremonies. he was a painter, an illustrator, a private eye. granted, he is still all of those things, but the fact remains that he appreciated this planned get-together on a visceral level.

“this is no ordinary party,” he may or may not have thought to himself, “this is a showcase of my art and the art of my peers. this is an opportunity for others to see our dreams in physical form and discuss their reactions amongst themselves. feelings will be shared - not just beer and snacks. maybe inspiration will inhabit some; maybe confusion or empathy. regardless, it will probably be a momentous occasion. i should wear shades.”

and so he did.

presumably feeling humble but sassy, Kenton readied himself for the event and arrived fashionably late - mostly due to his ride getting off of work late. upon his arrival, he was greeted by a table full of homemade treats, a fridge full of beer, and quite a handful of happy, loud friends. strewn around him on tables and chairs were hundreds of About [blank] zines, all carefully hand-folded and assembled, free to the curious public. and inside those zines was Kenton’s art - a whole page dedicated to his work, which was also conveniently hanging on display in the makeshift gallery of this tiny apartment space where the party was being held.

beer magically in hand, Kenton approached his hanging illustration slowly. a sensation bubbled within him as he gazed contentedly at his work and then those around him. to this day, he still can’t say for sure if that sensation was pride or carbonation, but said sensation began to stir the party animal within him. elation swelled deep in his bosom, and a jolt of energy rushed through his veins. “now, i shall party like i’ve never partied before,” he probably declared, and it was at this moment that kenton danced. he danced and danced and danced! he laughed with friends! he talked about his art! he drank plenty of beer! he never felt so alive!

…and he did this all while miles away in texas.

Kenton and his illustration.

Kenton and zines unbounded

Kenton at the table of bounty, whisky in arms reach

Kenton, not being above photo-bombing

and Kenton, resting until the next party calls.