Kelly S. Hopkins is an artist whose life’s journey and creative passion have translated into works that capture the ethereal beauty of nature.

She was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Kelly’s early years were a mosaic of small-town life in Ontario, with each move introducing her to new landscapes and horizons.

By the time her family settled in Windsor, Ontario, Kelly had found her passion for the natural world’s beauty.

These early experiences instilled in her an appreciation for the vibrant interplay between nature and the human spirit, a theme that reverberates throughout her work.

Kelly’s artistic inclination revealed itself in her pre-teen years. Guided by dreams of mountains, waterfalls, the moon, and animals, she found herself more naturally inclined towards painting than poetry. This fascination with landscapes soon became her artistic compass.

Growing up in a family brimming with creativity — from vocal/instrument music to painting, sketching and home crafts — Kelly’s artistic aspirations were never a solitary endeavor.

Her sister Toni Wells and her friend Mr. Peter Olsen played pivotal roles in nurturing her talent, while her aunt introduced her to the craft of crocheting at the tender age of eight.

While Kelly’s formal education as an Executive Administrative Assistant might suggest a different career trajectory, her heart remained steadfastly devoted to art.

Largely self-taught, she absorbed techniques and styles through rigorous research, practice, and the guiding hands of her sisters and friends.

This dedication extended beyond traditional forms of art, as she taught herself to knit, loom knit, and used sewing skills which she had initially picked up from her mother and grandmother.

Kelly’s professional journey reflects her unyielding ambition and commitment to improvement.

Her involvement with the Art Charmer led to an assistantship with The Art Army, an experience that enriched her skills and broadened her artistic horizons.

This period of growth was crucial, as it allowed her to refine her techniques and deepen her connection to her craft.

Nature, in all its breathtaking forms, serves as the wellspring of Kelly’s inspiration. The natural world resonates deeply with her, influencing her choice of subjects and her creative process.

A moment of emotional connection with a scene often compels her to translate it into art, whether through painting, sketching, or textile crafts.

This profound affinity for nature imbues her work with authenticity and soul, setting it apart in the realms of both realism and abstract art.

Among her favourite projects, a standout is her first significant work — a landscape painting of trees, a lake, and distant mountains plucked from a dream, which serendipitously mirrored a real location.

Another cherished piece “Free to Fly” symbolizes her liberation from personal stressors, encapsulating the therapeutic power of art.

Her mentors such as Mr. Balder, her mother, and her sister, along with her emotions, have profoundly influenced her artistic journey.

Kelly’s artistic endeavors have brought her into the fold of several notable organizations.

These include The Arts Society of Kingsville (ASK), The Leamington Art Center (LAC), and The Gibson Art Gallery of Amherstburg.

Her work has graced these galleries and numerous craft shows, with an upcoming collaborative exhibition titled “Images And Interpretations of Nature.”

The exhibition is slated for October, 2020 at The Carnegie Arts and Cultural Center in Kingsville, alongside Brianne Alyssa Taggart who is also an artist in photography and paint.

Although specific awards or prominent collectors remain unmentioned, Kelly’s art consistently garners praise for its beauty, talent and appeal. Her multifaceted interests extend beyond visual art to include various crafts, singing, and playing musical instruments.

Each of these pursuits, echoing her artistic philosophy, contributes to a richer, more nuanced expression of her creativity.

Kelly believes in the vital role of art in society, especially in a world often overshadowed by discord. Her art serves as a beacon of beauty and kindness, striving to make the world a better place.

Her goals are not only to achieve personal success but also to spread this beauty within her community.

In the ever-evolving tapestry of Kelly S. Hopkins’ life, every brushstroke, stitch and note weaves a narrative of resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to capturing and sharing the splendor of the world around her.

All images provided by Kelly S. Hopkins