BIO
Kate Kelly is a Pembrokeshire-based artist who creates vibrant coastal paintings in oils and acrylics. Her work primarily explores the beauty of the sky, bold colour to conjure atmosphere and textures to describe a moment in the landscape.
Kate was taught ‘A’ Level Art (@ Sir John Deane’s college, Northwich) by the wonderful Robert Westall (writer & painter).
Experimenting in many disciplines during her Art Foundation studies (@ Northwich Art School) she sought an applied ‘fine’ arts course and was so delighted to fight off the competition and gain a place @ Liverpool Poly (now Sir John Moore’s Uni).
In 1990 Kate became a freelance printed textile designer, having completed a BA Hons. Textile & Fashion degree. She gained experience by selling work to large furnishing companies like Dorma, card / wrap retailers such as WH Smiths and U.S. swim & leisure wear producers.
Later, living and studying in Lancaster, Kate bought a pair of stout boots and discovered the joys of walking the land & coast in northern England. It was at this time the artist began painting in earnest using oils and canvas.
Having spent sometime working in London Kate now lives a very rural existence on a small holding close to the beautiful beaches of South-West Wales.
During this time, Kate has spent 4 years working in a local primary school using her creative skills to help children explore their feelings, emotional responses and to promote a sense of well-being.
Now as a full time artist, she actively encourages others to explore their creative side and on request, teaches art clubs, social groups and provides bespoke outdoor painting sessions.
In June 2023 she was selected to join Kings Street Gallery (Carmarthen) and a selection of her work is always on display. Earlier in the year Kate was selected (as a welsh contemporary artist) to exhibit in Bloomsbury, London.
During 2024 Kate extended her audience & was successfully selected for the Cardiff M.A.D.E (a contemporary gallery) Winter Open and Plas Glyn y Weddw Summer Show and was very pleased to reach many new collectors through these prestigious exhibitions.
Kate loves to walk the Pembrokeshire coastal path (a stunning part of the world), the source of her inspiration.
Today, you will find Kate in the studio, tea mug in hand, with the dog sitting at her feet (getting the odd drip of paint on them!). The artist is delighted to have collectors in the UK, France, Canada and the U.S. and an ever growing audience.
Member of the following Art Society’s :
Cardigan & Fishguard (FAS)
A member of Oriel Q (Narberth)
Visual Arts Co-ordinator for the On Lands Edge Arts Festival (Fishguard) in 2024, 2025
Steering group member for FAS
Artist’s Statement
I think of colour as threads in the coastal landscape, dipping in and out, interlocked and inter-woven. Sometimes the bold colours are replaced with ribbon gauzes and organdy passages that can end in frayed textural edges. All employed to conjure that moment in time and place.
Layers of texture are added to establish atmospheric coastal conditions – such as a moody sea fret, the waning of the day or the drama of sheer cliffs that have been shaped by wind and tide.
Some paintings are jewelled with colour – bright on a summer’s day, others more softly painted as the light changes. I carefully consider playful combinations of colour that give my work a distinctive voice.
My story is of a painter who loves being at the edge of the land, watching the skies and the light change on the sea. Always fascinated with the sense of space and freedom that being outdoors provides. There is drama, joy and peace in these moments and in my paintings. My hope for the future is to grow my audience and to delve deeper into my interpretation of this subject.
What People Say
Absolutely thrilled with the watercolour I ordered – titled “Incoming Marloes”. It is a gift for my sister’s birthday and I know she will love it. Thank you Kate I will definitely be looking to buy more beautiful art from you.
Karen (Surrey)
5 stars all around! This painting greets me every day in my bedroom. It’s stunning! It was carefully packed and shipped quickly. I would definitely buy from Kate again!
Jennifer (U.S.A)
Couldn’t wait for ‘Summer’s Delight’ to arrive. We love this area of Pembrokeshire, and thought that your style and choice of colours, captures its beauty perfectly. Still trying to find the perfect place to hang it in the new house! Prompt communication and careful packaging, with a lovely note as well.
H. Parnell (London)