We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Leslie Kell a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Leslie, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

My artwork is created using an original technique that synthesizes elements of Illustration, design, and photography. The skills required are multi-faceted and the tools range from my camera to an array of Adobe Creative Cloud software.

While I hold a BA with a background in painting and illustration, the technical aspects of my work are self-taught. I’ve developed a deep knowledge base in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign over the years as a professional designer.

The photography facet of my practice has had a more compressed timeline. A formal education as a photographer would have created a foundation that accelerated a higher level of technical skill. Alternatively, I’ve spent many hours in workshops, online courses and sifting through information in an effort to elevate my knowledge.

The meshing of these skills has developed over the years. But as we know, the world moves fast and it’s a constant process. I believe the most essential skills in mastering any craft are curiosity, persistence, and prolific practice. With that level of commitment, anything is possible.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My life as an artist ignited around the age of nine. I can scarcely remember a time that was not invested in creative pursuits of some kind. I began my career as a painter and illustrator and transitioned to a graphic artist and designer. Eventually, I was able to bring the two sides of my creative practice together and throw in a bit of photography too. In late 2008, I created my first digital composition as a fine art piece using my original photography and Adobe Creative Suite. I quickly realized that the possibilities were endless and years later I am still chasing that elusive “perfect” image as a digital artist.

I work with natural forms to create surreal environments in which my photos are assembled into the spaces and patterns of my drawings. The imagery is optimistic and celebrates the natural world. My body of work is unique and highly recognizable due to the original technique I’ve developed and nurtured.

In recent years, I’ve taken my imagery a step further by adding layer of video to create magical hybrids that I call “cinemagraphs”. These soothing, mesmerizing videos can be found throughout Austin Bergstrom International Airport on the digital gate markers. They have also been included in juried exhibitions, public art installations, digital publications, and physician waiting rooms.

One of the most rewarding areas of my business is working with clients to create a highly personal piece for their space. My high-resolution digital images are fully scalable and can be sized to fit anywhere and printed on a wide array of materials. I also accept commissions to create custom artwork that captures specific locations, special events and themes for both commercial and private collections. Because the process is highly customizable, the possibilities reach across a spectrum of styles and personal tastes.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Having the freedom to create and to share a vision and a story is very rewarding. It’s a privilege to occupy a space that allows for expression and to be granted a voice. It’s a bonus when you touch someone with your art, and they welcome it into their lives.

Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?

As a digital artist, I thought would offer my thoughts on NFTs. I’m interested in the long-range benefits to artists and musicians. The idea of sharing and monetizing digital content that transfers with provenance is intriguing and could empower digital creators in ways we can only imagine. However, I’m still in “watch this space” mode. I have not taken time away from my creative practice to integrate NFTs into my business yet. I think it’s too early to tell if NFTs will be sustainable, broadly accessible, and beneficial to artists.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://lesliekell.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesliekell/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leslie.kell/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesliekell/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/KellCreative/videos