Featured Artist: Kellabell9

1) If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I studied a bit in Florence, Italy and have always wanted to go back. I absolutely loved everything about the culture & gorgeous architecture which gave a richness to the city... plus the gelato, what else could you need?

 2) What is creativity to you?

Creativity to me is seeing everyday things in new ways. Combining different images, ideas, or moments to create something fresh for your audience to enjoy.

 3) Is there an artist/piece of art that you can’t live without?

I have favorites across the board from Caravaggio to Pollack, but some of my all-time favorite works of art are illustrations of pin-up girls or women's magazine ads from the 1940s, 50s & 60s.

 5) Do you know what your finished art piece will be, before you begin?

It depends. Sometimes an idea will hit, I'll do a quick sketch before I forget it, and that stays true to the original idea while I draw it out fully. Other times, I'll think of something like a cute catchphrase or pop culture moment, then draw two or three ways of interpreting it whether it's by changing the style or medium.

6) What do you do when you are experiencing a mental block to creating art?

This 100% happens at least once a week. I usually will throw on some bad reality TV & just start sketching whatever comes to my mind, whether it's my dogs, the patterns on the couch cushion, or a previous idea that never really went anywhere. Another way I shake off the cobwebs is by taking a breather from your art and watch a tutorial on something like "how to create a retro 50s photo filter" or "tips to replicate watercolor textures in photoshop". If you are learning something new, it's a nice way to give your brain a chance to decompress & take a break from the constant need to create finished work.

 7) Do you have funny/unique rituals in your creative process?

Other than the fact I am constantly surrounded by 3 fat bulldogs snoring away while I work, my office time is pretty routine.

 8) What creative people do you admire?

Coming from more of a fashion background, people like Betsey Johnson, Diane Von Furstenberg, and Kate Spade always inspire me with their bold use of color & pattern in a way that is so unique to their brands.

 9) What is the ultimate message you would like to convey with your art?

Nothing deep, my goal is to make whoever buys my tee designs smile when they put it on in the morning...because it's silly, cute, sarcastic, whatever, as long as they like it.