Check Out Leslie Kell’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Leslie Kell. 

Hi Leslie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I began my artistic journey as a painter and illustrator. I eventually found myself transitioning to a career as a graphic artist and I’ve been fortunate to operate my own freelance design business for over 25 years. In the last decade, I’ve transitioned back to pursuits in fine art. While my aesthetic tendencies had not shifted significantly over the years, my medium of choice had changed quite a bit. 

I was able to tap into my unique skill set as a graphics professional to create an original technique that synthesizes the artistry of both design and photography. In late 2008, I created my very first digital composition using my original photography and Adobe Creative Suite. I quickly realized that the possibilities were endless and years later I am still chasing that elusive vision of the perfect image. 

My work often explores the complexities of adjacent realities and perceptions. The imagery is optimistic and celebrates beauty while revealing a glimpse into a new world of endless possibilities. I use recurring themes of water, light, and reflection. I find the shimmering images and ephemeral changes of light to be a powerful reminder of the fleeting nature of our realities. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Building an artistic practice can be compared to chiseling through a wall. You have no idea how dense or thick the wall is, or how long it might take to break through, yet you keep chipping away. Some days that blind faith is harder to muster than others. Patience, perseverance, and hard work can break down those walls. 

As a digital artist in the beginning of the movement, the very legitimacy of digital art itself was a barrier I was met with while introducing my artwork to the world. At the time, the digital medium was skirting the fringes of acceptance. Now my challenges lie in keeping up with the fast-moving technology. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
“I’ve never seen anything like this.” Is the most consistent comment I hear when a person is introduced to my work for the first time. I take pride in the fact that my artwork is totally unique, from the imagery to the framing. 

Because the images are digital in their beginnings, what comes next is highly customizable. All my images can be printed on a wide range of substrates and options to fit any space. These options range from limited edition prints on fine art paper to open edition and edition varies on metal, canvas, and more. I can create “virtual hangings” for collectors who have a specific space that they would like to see a piece in situ. 

In recent years, I’ve taken my imagery a step further by adding layers of video to create magical hybrids that I call “cinemagraphs”. These soothing, mesmerizing videos can be found at Austin Bergstrom International Airport on the digital gate markers. They have also been included in juried exhibitions, the digital issue of the Summer 2020 NARM Quarterly, and physician waiting rooms. 

Through my unique technique, I can create customized artwork to capture specific locations, special events, and various themes for both commercial and private collections. I also offer image licensing of my images. I’ve been honored to create many commissions for clients over the years. 

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Fortunately, I found support in many places that have helped carve my path forward. I am happy to say that my artistic life is creative and fulfilling. I owe much of my gratitude to the fellow artists and the art lovers I’ve met along the way, that have nurtured galleries, venues, and art centers to support the arts. My advice would be to engage in the community. Join an organization, show up and support fellow creatives. Volunteer and share your talents. 

I would like to take this moment to shout out to the Creative Arts Society for 20 years of supporting local artists in Austin. Also, to the Georgetown Art Center, Round Rock Arts, and Inspired Minds Art Center for promoting and providing opportunities for artists in Central Texas. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://lesliekell.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesliekell/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leslie.kell/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/KellCreative/videos

Image Credits
Greta Olivas Fine Art