Amanda grew up in the suburbs of Atlanta. She moved to Homer, Alaska in the summer of 2016 and found a home and community that have helped her flourish. She started painting in 2018 while taking a class with artist David Pettibone. After several years working for a local arts non-profit, she recently took on a new role in a local conservation organization. Amanda loves hiking, foraging, tidepooling, making art, reading, camping and adventuring with her partner and their dog Otto.
Artist Statement
Making art is my opportunity to play. I like to experiment with different mediums and subjects, though primarily exhibit my landscape and nature-themed oil paintings. My artistic curiosity and the joy of discovery in my creative process parallel my feeling of wonder in the natural world. Outside I love to investigate interesting plants and animals, examining fascinating patterns and relationships that connect all Life. I feel most at home in the sanctuary of the outdoors.
I revisit these experiences of wonder and awe through painting. My desire to recreate ephemeral experiences of beauty in nature results in part from a need to be seen for who I am at those moments when I feel the most myself. Here is how I see the world, here is what I value. I existed in this moment. I have witnessed something universal.
The creative process offers both escape and heightened presence. Focusing on each step- from setting up my palette to cleaning out my brushes after a session- helps me feel more grounded. I disentangle from the constant demands on my attention in daily life. Experiencing the meditative state of flow is a relief to my busy brain. I invite viewers to take a moment to slow down and reconnect to the present as I have while painting. I hope that in my work they will recognize some of the beauty and wonder I’ve experienced. Ultimately, making art is a practice in engaging with beauty, gratitude, and joy.
Contact me with purchase inquiries:
Some friends and family:
Alaska Motion Pictures
John Kelly Photography
Molly Montgomery
Blythe Ann Art
Original Art by Amanda Kelly | Homer, Alaska 