My journey started in 1995 with watercolor. To me, that was the most beautiful medium, and frankly, resembled life. No matter how you see things in your mind's eye, life has a tendency of doing what it wants regardless of how I expect or want it to. Colors run together and happy accidents happen all the time. If you try and control it, most likely you will make a mess. And such is life. "Go with the flow" I always say and let your colors run!

In 2011, just after giving birth to my daughter, I was diagnosed with Acute Leukemia and my prospects of surviving was grim, less that 25%. I felt scared, hopeless, but thankfully very determined. I just had a baby for crying out loud! So my sweet mother went and made copies of all my art and hung it over every inch of the hospital room and said to me, "Don't forget who you are." She brought me my paints and my love affair with watercolor continued, teaching me to go with the flow and live in the moment. I produced one of my most favorite pieces during that time called "Garden of Hope" and dedicated it to my Mom. We are nothing without the love of a mother, and so I fought hard to be there for my own newly born daughter. And I kicked its ASS!

Over the years, my art has evolved in many beautiful directions. I love exploring different mediums, from Pan Pastels and pastel pencils to vibrant acrylics, allowing each medium to bring its own unique character and personality to my work. I believe there are no rules in art—only possibilities. Experiment, mix and match, and follow your heart until you discover your own creative bliss.

My love for animals has inspired me to create custom commemorative pet portraits in both pastel and acrylic, each one a heartfelt tribute to the beloved companions who leave paw prints on our hearts. Whether you prefer the soft, expressive beauty of pastel or the rich, vibrant colors of acrylic, I would be honored to capture the spirit and personality of your cherished pet. 

As Pablo Picasso once said, " To paint you must close your eyes and sing". 

Be well and please contact me for any reason.

 

Kelly Shannon Chester