Kellie is a former high school art teacher who resides near Lafayette, La. She spent her childhood in a rural area near New Roads, La playing outdoors and living in a world where imagination and creativity were encouraged. That environment allowed her to see the world differently than most, and she uses those experiences to enhance her artwork today.
Kellie has a Bachelor of Art in art education from Louisiana Tech University. After college she began a family and used her creativity in every aspect of her life while being a mom. She spent time working for the Acadiana Center for the Arts in both the PACE and Bright New Worlds programs which allowed her to create unique projects and work with a variety of students. Kellie also worked at Ascension Episcopal School as both a middle school and high school art teacher. Her time in the schools allowed her the opportunity to follow her passion for teaching and sharing her enthusiasm for art. In 2020 Kellie committed to working as a full time artist and showcasing her work at local galleries and attending artisan markets in the south. Creating has always felt like play for Kellie and her excitement and fulfillment can be found in every piece she creates.
Who makes up your art circle?
My circle is made of lifelong creative friends who have stood by me in every stage of life, new besties who remind me of deals on supplies and upcoming endeavors, art market friends who are full of tips and tricks and online friends who comment and encourage me in so many ways.
How do you expand your art circle?
Every time I participate in an art market or host a creative retreat, I meet new and interesting people. They help me keep my fears and doubts in perspective and also help me to dream bigger. I think a key way to expand your circle is to be open with people and to not be afraid to reach out to people you admire.
What value do you see in having a creative community?
A creative community is different from your regular community in that they understand your heart and passion for your work. They understand the many hats that an artist must wear to create a business from artwork. It’s also important have people to talk about new techniques and ideas as well as what works for each of you. I love inspiring other people, but I equally love learning and taking in all that my fellow artists have to share. I think we are made to inspire each other.
How does your artistic approach contribute to your community?
Part of my artistic approach is empowering other artists to step into their creativity. I love to be open with my techniques and fresh ideas. I truly feel like God places things inside of each of us that are meant for others and it’s important to share those gifts. I also host a creative retreat called Making your Mark and a Christmas art market called Workshop on West Congress that allows others in my art circle to come together and share their work. These events have been equally as fulfilling to me as creating my own artwork.
Our weekly Art Circle series profiles artists throughout the community and is sponsored in part by Lafayette Visitor Enterprise Fund managed by Lafayette Travel
