Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Kelly.
Hi Rachel, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Originally from Santa Barbara, CA, I’ve been creating art since I could pick up a pencil. I’ve always had an innate passion for painting, and my experiences living throughout the United States have given me a unique ability to share some of the beautiful landscapes and colors I’ve seen through my eyes. In 2021, I moved to Amelia Island, FL, and quit my full-time job as a social media manager, representing over 80 brands across the nation, to pursue my mission as a full-time artist.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
It was not an easy decision to leave my consistent 9-5 job, but I knew that I had to follow my dreams as an artist and inspire as many people as possible through my art. With my Advertising background, I knew that brand awareness was imperative, so I started building my brand from scratch. Since then, I’ve grown my Instagram following organically and gained over 1600 incredible followers, including professional athletes, artists, non-profits, creative directors, musicians, journalists, and more.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a mixed-media, contemporary artist specializing in acrylics, acrylic gouache, and charcoal. My recent collection includes Plein air paintings on the beach, marine life, and local landmarks. My inspiration comes from my love of nature, people, and preserving and protecting our beautiful planet. My mission is to inspire and encourage others through art and positive social messaging. I truly believe art has a unique way of educating, healing and inspiring people. I’m proud to say that I’ve used my platform to raise funds and helped numerous public figures and organizations spread their messages along the way. Some of the most impactful people and organizations I’ve helped include Tim Tebow, who brings faith, hope and love to people across the globe; The Tim Tebow Foundation, which helps victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation; Compassionate Hope Foundation, which provides hope and a future to children in SE Asia; Children’s Rescue Coalition, which rescues children worldwide through technology; and the Wyland Foundation, which promotes, protects, and preserves the world’s ocean, waterways, and marine life through art and education.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those just starting.
My advice for you is to follow your dreams relentlessly and pursue your goals to the highest capacity. In the process, use your voice for good. You don’t have to figure everything out at once; small steps will get you to the finish line. We all have the opportunity to make the world a better place and make a positive impact. Life is too short not to be happy and not make a difference.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rachelkellyart.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/rachelkellyart
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/rachelkellyart
Image Credits
Photography by: Rachel Kelly
