Cynthia Sue Kelly

I love life!

I paint to connect more deeply with my world.

It started in Oklahoma, where I was born, and learned about the native culture. I thought their dances and costumes were amazingly beautiful and I attended many pow-wows to learn as much as I could.

In my series, “Things in My head”, I began to use ink with my watercolors and purposely letting the ink lines cross and intersect with each other. To me this represents that all living things are connected.

In my series called “Pitchers and Pouches” I have used the pitchers as a symbol of our bodies as a vessel for spirit. I have collected pitchers for many years and now combine them in still life acrylic paintings with other treasured objects.

In my most recent ,”Feather and Faces” series, I explore the rich cultural heritage of Native American people through vibrant watercolor portraits, enveloped by abstract feather shapes and bright colors. This unique combination allows me to evoke a deep connection between Earth and Spirit, utilizing beautiful faces and feathers as symbolic spiritual elements.

When selecting subjects for my art, my aim is to manifest a palpable unity between the material and the ethereal realms. Each face and feather I paint serves as a conduit for spiritual expression, intertwining human presence with natural symbols.

Technically, I bring a unique vitality to my paintings through the meticulous layering of transparent watercolors. This technique allows for the creation of rich, luminous colors that add depth and dimension to each piece, ensuring that every portrait is as dynamic and multifaceted as the cultures they depict.