Kelly Gillum

Teaches at The Art Center Highland Park

Kelly Gillum is from Austin, Texas.  She moved here to Chicago to study art.  She is an abstract painter and “up-cyclist.”  Her work has been described as “spontaneous and dimensional with subtle interplay” and “Warm and emotional, rich, dynamic with the ability to express the universal abstractly.”Her artistic career began in the early 90’s while attending the Academy of Merchandising and Design in Chicago. At this time, she also secured a job working as a graphic artist in a textile shop. The requirement to employment was to create two designs a day to be used for fabric. In addition, she was also awarded the responsibility of commissioned designs and given carte blanche to communicate with the client as needed. As a young artist, this experience gave her the confidence, focus and perspective in combining both the creative and business side of art.“The construction of my art involves a layered process. Specific symbols, letters and numbers sometimes spill over into my work. I explore my environment and use what seems right for the piece. I view art as extremely personal; I interpret what is pertinent to the piece at the moment,  and convey it on canvas.”Most recently, she has returned to her roots working with textiles.  Kelly is combing her recycling knowledge and taking old materials making them new again.Kelly is using her artistic talent for philanthropy and for profit. As a business person and an experienced fundraiser she has the unique ability to concept and formulate a plan that is unique and profitable. Her art, illustrations and textiles have graced walls, galleries, ties, scarves, hats and aprons. Her work is available in posters, prints and originals. Kelly’s work has been seen across the globe in traveling exhibitions and shows.