I so am honored to have been interviewed for Voyage Dallas Thought-Provoker’s series!
Today we’d like to introduce you to Leslie Kell.
Leslie, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I was raised in Garland and began my journey as a painter and illustrator until transitioning to a career as a graphic artist.
I’ve been fortunate to operate my own design business for over 25 years in Austin. For me, the moment of returning to purely artistic pursuits was inevitable. While my aesthetic tendencies had not shifted significantly over the years, my medium of choice had changed quite a bit. In late 2008, I created my first digital collage using my own photography and Adobe Creative Suite. It was a thrill. I quickly realized that the possibilities were endless and 10 years later I am still chasing that elusive vision.
What I didn’t expect was the resistance I met with introducing my artwork to the world. At the time, digital art was still in the shadows and skirting the edges of legitimacy. It became evident that it would have been easier to return to traditional techniques and materials. But, I was hooked. I began to feel that I owed it to myself to see what this vibrant new medium had to offer. And now, I feel owe it to my collectors and supporters to see what I have to offer to the movement. Of course, this means eating the words of my 20-year-old self: “I will never create art on a computer”. But I can live with that.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
My artwork is created using an original technique that synthesizes the artistry of design and photography. I work with architectural forms to create surreal environments in which my photos are assembled into the spaces and patterns of my designs. The complex and layered works are visual encounters that push the bounds of vision and reveal a place you might not recognize—but somehow, have been waiting to visit.
My photography is captured at every opportunity and selected based on a theme, location, color and texture. As the imagery interacts to create the highlights, shadows and contours of the new image, it also offers deeper discoveries within the composition. Because each piece may use up to a dozen photographs, there is always something new to encounter. I often use recurring themes of water, light and reflection to capture that instant of sensation when these elements slide into each other and produce an otherness.
Mazes, passageways and mirrors captivate my surrealist sensibilities and drive the design concept of these illusionary pieces. I find the shimmering images and ephemeral changes of light to be a powerful reminder of the fleeting nature of our visions. My art is optimistic and celebrates beauty while revealing a fresh glimpse into a new world.
When people stand before my work uttering surprising exclamations and discover the images that wait in the sub-layers, I feel that I’ve been successful in creating an experience. It’s meant to be a captivating and sublime encounter that will be hard to leave behind… the realization of “the more you look, the more you see”.
What would you recommend to an artist new to the city, or to art, in terms of meeting and connecting with other artists and creatives?
I have volunteered for a non-profit art group for many years. The experience has forged many friendships and has been very fulfilling. My advice… join a group, go to openings, take a workshop or preferably all of the above. Whatever it takes to get out there.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I exhibit my artwork in many venues as well as at fine art festivals and events. To stay up to date, sign up for my newsletter at lesliekell.com. Because the work is digital, custom prints are available for all of my images. I offer “virtual hangings” to help fit a piece to a specific space. I also continue work in many areas as a visual artist, including freelance graphics and commissions for custom artwork.
Contact Info:
- Website: LeslieKell.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesliekell/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leslie.kell/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/LeslieKellArt
