Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Steller Hrad.
Kelly, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Art has been a lifelong journey, only recently has it flourished on canvas. I studied art growing up in junior high and high school. I even won a Blue Ribbon in the New Mexico State Fair in my age group – at the time I thought that was the highlight of my life. I was 13; little did I know what would come 40 years later.
I was looking for a “me time” activity that was healthy and fulfilling, as I had a lot of life stuff that needed to be unpacked and resolved. I found a great little art studio that offered adult class time and instruction very close to my home. I stumbled and struggled through a watercolor, dabbled in acrylics, but found a true outlet in oils. It was a nice respite, but the name of the studio was Artist Within – I was still searching my soul. My husband and I had been looking for art for our new home. Hours and hours of roaming through galleries provided a lot of inspiration. That’s when I started experimenting with several mediums and the fun and healing started. I was fortunate enough to meet and learn from several generous artists in the area. Each one of them expanded my imagination and helped me hone my skills. Art was healing for me, a way to explore emotions and memories.
A career in art wasn’t really something I was seeking or thought I had the talent to pursue, but with encouragement from my husband, friends, and undeniably answered prayers inspired me to take the leap! Ginger Fox gave me my first big opportunity to show at her gallery in Bishop Arts. Next, the new publisher/editor of Plano Profile posted they were looking for stories about local artists. I sent in a little commentary with some photos and to my surprise they selected me. Then, a new gallery was opening in Historic Downtown Plano, Ten20 Gallery, and I was selected to show there. The grand opening felt like all of Plano was crammed into the small, art-filled space. More doors were opened, opportunities for commissions arose, and soon many of my paintings were hanging in the homes of friends and strangers alike.
As a result of the Plano Profile article as well as several events and meetings, The ArtCentre of Plano invited me to do a solo show in the Fall of 2018. I knew this was truly special, unique, and rewarding opportunity. Getting the paintings ready was exciting and full of trial, error, tears, joy and elation. 72 paintings filled the beautiful Saigling House in Downtown Plano on opening night of Life In Color. It was beyond anything I could have hoped, imagined, or prayed for — truly a pinch me evening. Fall 2019 my Alma Mater, Baker University, invited me to exhibit at the Holt Russell Gallery on the historic campus. Color Brick Road opened Homecoming weekend. The opportunity to be back on campus, meet with the art students and see what they were working on was an added bonus.
That is what it is still about – putting an array of emotions, memories, gratitude, and excitement on canvas. Painting is my way of journaling. I love to tell the stories of the paintings to clients, to hear what they see or feel. Everyone experiences art in their own way. Sharing their thoughts and ideas about the art with others promotes further inspiration and creativity.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Time is the biggest challenge, finding enough of it for everything. I have a full-time job, a wonderful husband, a precious 9-year-old puppy, friends and family that I love. Juggling is a challenge. Now that “art career” has become a blossoming business, it is an ebb and flow of focus. The continued support of my loved ones keeps me balanced and allows me to explore my soul and share my stories. It’s not easy and I often feel like something is suffering. I just try to stay focused on each day as it comes, one day at a time.
Please tell us more about your art.
Turning my me time art therapy into a business has been full of learning experiences. Translating what I have created on canvas to social media, website, and other products has been fun and challenging. Opportunities to exhibit are the most fun and where my paintings are best appreciated — the depth and texture is what makes my work truly different. Art is everywhere. Art is seen and interpreted differently by everyone. The discussion and non-verbal dialogue is powerful as the senses take in art. Currently, I have pieces on available at Roche Bobois in the Dallas Design District – an unexpected door was opened yet again.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I will continue to journal, visit memories, and walk through open doors that show themselves. I will remain thankful for all those who love, encourage and support me. This art journey has been an unexpected blessing that is still unfolding.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kellystellerhrad.com
- Phone: 214-912-9202
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @kellystellerhrad
- Facebook: Kelly Steller Hrad Art
Image Credit:
Paintings, Kelly Steller Hrad.
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