Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Terrell.
Hi Kelly, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My story began as a quirky kid who decorated her “career bear” as an artist with a floral beret from fabric remnants and an incredibly detailed palette in hand. Sounds cliché, but I did it. Now, I really am a professional artist who not only paints but encourages young artists to work hard for those dreams and beyond. We are more than dreams of “being an artist when I grow up” talk because we can be creative thinkers. With that, I’m an artsy MacGyver of all things and creatively show up. Right now, my story falls in the Kelly Terrell Art chapter of regular Kid Art Commission sessions and clients in my home studio, while making time to create for myself and share my original artwork. Feels like a heck of a book series, so keep following along!
“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” -Steve Jobs
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’m very fortunate to have an incredible life. Part of me reads a question about obstacles and challenges and really has to dig deep. This isn’t because I haven’t had them or continue to have them. I’m just not the person to dwell or see them as a negative. I’m a problem solver, not a problem maker. Sure, I could respond with everything from ADHD and anxiety to motherhood and being a small business owner, working with the general public and client collaboration to business operations and marketing myself, and whatever “balance” we all search for. What I’ve learned is that if you really talk to people, connect with them, share an honest range of emotions, laugh, and listen, a lot of challenges and obstacles gain perspective and clarity. Or you just have someone to empathize with and vent to. I’m not the only one with challenges. But a weighted blanket nap, a short pity party, and actively piddlin’ or pulling weeds before painting alone in the studio solves a lot of issues for me.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
For over 15 years, I’ve built a studio that supports me as an artist and collaborates with families to create core memories and timeless masterpieces. Kelly Terrell Art specializes in custom abstract paintings that capture the unique stories of families and communities. Kid Art Commissions are collaborations in my studio with children and their families to create high-end work for their homes, offices, and retail spaces. My work also extends an invitation to participate directly through “paint kits,” which empower families to capture their children’s or pets’ prints on my original work during retail pop-ups and brand collaborations. From abstracts to landscapes, my paintings are inspired by the moments that define a life: the warmth of a remembered season, a nod to a beloved hobby, handprints on our hearts, and the lingering feeling of a cherished vacation.
Whether through a collaborative print or a finished canvas, my goal is to spark delight and core memories by transforming personal stories into beautiful art.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I’m not going to lie. I have a lot of trouble sitting still. I am forever grateful for audiobooks and podcasts. My favorites are:
The Founders podcast by David Senra
How to Take Over the World podcast by Ben Wilson
The Liz Moody Podcast by Liz Moody
“12 Rules for Life” by Jordan B. Peterson
Every Malcolm Gladwell book (“David & Goliath” is a favorite)
“Fierce Poise” by Alexander Nemerov (I’m Helen Frankenthaler obsessed)
“Never Split the Difference” by Chris Voss (the best parenting and marriage book. Yes, it’s a hostage negotiator but don’t hate it until you listen to it…)
“Your Brain on Art” by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross
And I, personally, hate how many apps have to exist on my phone. So many portals…
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kellyterrellart.com
- Instagram: @kellyterrellart
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellyterrellart/
- Other: https://www.amazon.com/shop/kellyterrellart/list
