Shelly Kelly is an installation artist who studied at The London Institute, Chelsea College of Art & Design and Middlesex University in London, completing her BA (Hons) in Fine Art / Sculpture in 1996. She completed an MA in Visual Arts (Research) at Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane in 2000. Currently, Kelly is a PhD candidate at QUT, Brisbane, where she is researching sensory sculptures for children with disability through co-design.
Kelly’s works have explored the environmental impacts of climate change on landscapes. ‘Grass Cubed’ was inspired by drought and its water restrictions; the 2011 work ‘… house on a river’ by the Queensland floods and ‘RedDer’ by the changing migratory patterns of animals. Kelly used her return from the UK to change focus and study in more detail the elements of perception and how this directly relates to the viewers’ interpretation of art. Her Master’s thesis, entitled ‘Not So / Visual Art’, examined a more minimal approach to materials and explored the manipulation of these to predetermine specific outcomes within an audience. Kelly has exhibited both nationally and internationally, including, SxS Bondi, Cottesloe, McClelland, Lempriere and EASTinternational in the UK. Her work has featured in various reviews and exhibition catalogues.
2020 SWELL ARTWORK – I Really Want to See You!, Shelly Kelly
This work operates on two levels, out of choice and out of necessity, to a broad audience. On a visual level, the seductive materials are enthralling, yet some are drawn to the object to satiate a need. Some sensory children need to get up close and personal so they can see themselves in the mirror. This provides the sensory feedback for them to stay calm and relaxed. However, for others this is a self reflexive work, to question our place amidst a climate crisis.
SWELL Kids Artist Statement – I Really Want to See You!, Shelly Kelly
Some children experience their senses differently to others. Some objects provide a specific response for children through touch and sight, by allowing them to experience the artwork in their own way. By looking closely and seeing their image warp and distort in the object allows the work to be both a fun and accessible experience.
Come and see for yourself at SWELL Sculpture Festival, Pacific Parade, Currumbin 11-20 September.