Irish-Mexican artist Jess Kelly has had her luxurious metallic fine art featured in some of the most exclusive hotels, homes and restaurants around the world. Here she shares more about her work and inspirations …
Who or what was instrumental to your artistic journey?
I’m self-taught and have always had art in my life in some shape or form. My Mam painted a lot while I was growing up, mostly with oils. I loved drawing but it wasn’t until later in life I really became interested in acrylics, sprays and various types of pastes. I love playing with different textures; grainy, chunky, smooth – I always feel a sense of freedom to explore when using texture.
How do you describe your artworks?
I would describe my art as contemporary abstract. My pieces take elements of sculpture I like and then begin with layering textures first as this is the primary focus.
The tones I use are soft, muted and are often inspired by nature or stone. The majority of my art has inclusions of golden metallics – my unofficial trademark. I like to create art that complements a space rather than overpowers it.
How and where do you work?
I work from my studio which is at the end of my garden. We have a gorgeous fountain in the middle of the garden – I find the sound of the trickling water while I’m painting so soothing.
I usually work off ideas my clients share with me for commissioned pieces. This often often comprises their interiors moodboards and photos of nature, such as meadows or sunsets. When starting a non-commissioned piece, I see inspiration everywhere, usually translated as textural elements, from rugged cliff edges to white coral stone. I spent summers in Mexico growing up and lived in Santiago, Chile for sometime before coming back home to Ireland, so I’ve had the privilege of enjoying lots of different landscapes throughout my life.
What have been some of your latest commissions?
There’s so much happening at the moment, I’ve never been as busy which is amazing. I’ve just finished two pieces for Lough Eske Castle, Co Donegal. I’ve also had one of my largest commissioned pieces (almost 2m x 2m) sent to a fabulous client’s home in San Francisco!
Need to Know: Follow Jess on @jesskelly.art and to find out more visit www.jesskellyart.ie.
