Meet The Artist: Kelly Ventura
Name: Kelly Ventura
Occupation: Fine Artist/Designer
Art Medium: Watercolor
Favorite studio tool/supply: Winsor & Newton watercolors, sewing machine
Artists you love: Henri Matisse, Karina Bania, Jeff Depner
Sources of inspiration: Everyday surroundings
Favorite time to paint: Early afternoon when good light is streaming in my studio
How did you come to be an artist? Graduated with BFA in Fine Art; Painting/Drawing. Worked as a surface/product designer for gift/home wholesaler in Chicago for 5+ years... I churned out my fair share of snowmen and seasonal icons. I started my own company in 2011. I love the opportunity to work with a wide range of companies while staying true to my own style and brand.
What does your average day look like? Wake up and get boys ready for school/childcare. Drop off at school/childcare. Head home to start working. Sidetracked by dishes/laundry. Work more. Stray from list and paint. Work more. Prep dinner. Pick up boy 1 from school. Pick up boys 2 & 3 from child care. The hours of 5-8pm are the wild, unpredictable ones; dinner, homework, meltdowns and bedtime happen, but not in any specific order.
How would you describe your creative process/how do you go about making art? Some days I feel like a robot; creating patterns or paintings for a specific project or client. Other days are for exploring and creating for the sake of creating and growing.
"Some days I feel like a robot; creating patterns or paintings for a specific project or client. Other days are for exploring and creating for the sake of creating and growing."
What is the hardest part about being a creative entrepreneur? Finding balance between work and home life. Life with three boys 5 and under is busy and wonderful, so I need to be mindful that my work happens while they are in school/childcare.
What tips would you give someone looking to buy art? Find a piece with personal meaning to you.
What would you say to someone who is convinced they lack creativity or artistic ability? Keep going. Keep painting/drawing/doing what you love and you'll find your stride. It takes time and the rejection and self-doubt are part of that personal growth you need to succeed.
Check out more of Kelly's work on her website and Instagram!