Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Aldridge.
Hi Kelly, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hi I’m Kelly, I started painting 15 years ago while I was in the entertainment business. At the time it was just a hobby and something I enjoyed doing while I was modeling and acting full-time. Over the years I developed particular styles and started to really hone my skills. Once I retired from the entertainment business, I went back to school and finished my college degree. After graduation, I was at a crossroads in what to do next. People started asking me for commissions and I started playing with the idea of pursuing a career in art – something many would shy away from, but I was drawn to the idea of starting my own business and seeing what I can make of it. I’m still drawn to that. The idea that you can make money by following your passion?!? I was obviously into that and went for it. Interior design and general aesthetics intrigues me. I just really love paintings and how much they add to your home! Blank walls or bland walls show no personality – making the space look unfinished. What I love about original art is how much personality is displayed. It’s fun to see different styles and sizes. Size sometimes is a huge factor in placing art. Real paint on canvas, the quality, and the overall feel is so beautiful to me. It really does make a room in my opinion and I genuinely get excited over all the possibilities to decorate and choose art. My work gives off a wow factor, they are powerful, sophisticated, and strong. The entire process from start to finish is enjoyable and I take my work very seriously. I’m a perfectionist and it shows in my work!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It wasn’t an overnight success and there have been challenges along the way. Some of those include just learning how to market your work, get the visibility you need to be in front of people actually interested in purchasing your work and the logistics of transporting large artwork – very carefully. The never-ending challenge is just the entrepreneurial aspect of nothing is guaranteed but that comes with anyone working for themselves. Each year I have felt that I’ve done better than the last year which shows tenacity and sticking with it has helped me. Basically, don’t give up.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a contemporary artist who does large-scale original paintings on canvas. Some of my work is done with a lot of texture – something I’ve been doing since day one. I use acrylic paint and take a lot of pride in my creating. I’m known for textured abstracts – I do a lot of neutrals but also love to use color. My work is very sophisticated, has a lot of depth, and has a powerful feel to them. I like that energy in a space – something that stands out proudly and my work does just that. A lot of my work consists of commissions where I do custom paintings in various sizes and styles. I come to measure your space (home or office) and talk ideas – it’s a fun process for both the client and me – the artist.
Risk-taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I generally see risk-taking as no risk = no reward. I wouldn’t jump into something without any knowledge of it or plan to succeed. But sometimes when taking a risk – taking the actual leap is the hardest part.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kellyaldridge.com
- Instagram: @kelly__aldridge
