Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Scott.
Hi Kelly, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Art and creativity have been part of my life since I can remember. From the time I could use a pencil, I’ve been drawing, and in school, I was interested in any project that involved drawing or painting. My AA is in Interior Design, so the technical aspects of my art came from my education. I also independently selected specific classes and mentors to learn a variety of other skills and mediums, and I practice daily to improve. I love painting and drawing. They are key to my health and happiness.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Navigating the business aspect of an art career is challenging for a lot of creative people, including myself. I didn’t take many business classes in college, so I’ve had to find mentors and information outside of formal education. Vetting that information can be daunting. In Johnson County, Kansas, we are lucky to have a great community college with a small business center. I was also very fortunate to find InterUrban ArtHouse, where I participated in their ArtWorks program, and received great direction to solid resources. Now I have my own LLC and I’m beginning to earn money as an artist. It’s very exciting!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Primarily, I work in watercolor, ink, and acrylic. There are three main bodies of work I am known for: structured, technical, geometric, colorful circle compositions; loose, flowing, abstract watercolor paintings; and technical, precise, intricate ink (sometimes with watercolor) mandalas and drawings. In 2025 I had a solo exhibition at the Cedar Roe branch of the Johnson County Library, and my art was featured on the cover of the JOCO Library Summer 2025 Guide. I frequently show my work at InterUrban ArtHouse, where I am a member artist.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
What’s risky to one artist is different to another. For me, the biggest risk is playing it safe. Two years ago, a mentor suggested creating a body of larger work to show in public spaces. I was kind of taken aback, because I had never considered painting large watercolors. I wasn’t really sure how to go about it, but I knew I’d have to invest time and energy learning skills I didn’t have when it was so easy to continue the same beaten path. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized I was holding myself back and missing valuable opportunities. I bought the necessary tools and supplies and got to work. I learned how to scale up the compositions, how to present the finished work more impressively, and how to think and talk about the work I was doing. This past year I had enough success to reassure myself it was well worth the effort, and I’ll continue to take on new challenges.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kellysartthrob.com
- Instagram: @kellysartthrob
- Facebook: @kellysartthrob
- Youtube: @kellysartthrob
Image Credits
Laura McGill, personal photo
