Meet Kelly Merkur | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelly Merkur and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelly, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
“Vulnerability is not winning or losing; It’s having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome.” -Brene Brown.

I was just starting the process of reinventing myself when I saw Brene Brown’s Netflix special. When she quoted Theodore Roosevelt’s speech “The Man in the Arena” I was inspired & emboldened. This doesn’t mean that I don’t feel nauseous every time I share my work, but I am confident that every time I do, I am doing so authentically.

Brene Brown continues to be a reoccurring theme.  for me. I also ended up writing my first blog about one of my paintings that I painted live, for the first time after listening to one of her podcasts.

https://kellymerkurart.artstorefronts.com/blog/blog_posts/my-fft-effing-first-time

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I primarily paint abstract work. I paint in a palette traditionally considered “feminine” elevated through the use of rich textures and mark making.

I also started painting big, colorful hearts. That work has been quite successful. Primarily because people are able to relate to that universal imagery & are attracted to the bold color palette.

I studied fine art/textile design and worked in that industry until I started a family. I took time off to raise my daughters. The challenge has been finding my way back, finding my voice, and finding the right balance between family & career. I started slowly by taking art classes. Through that process I found my preferred medium & my passion. With my kids still at home, it is a constant struggle finding that right work/life balance, but the best part is that my girls get to see their mom carving out her place in the world & I know that they are proud of me.

I am amazed at the turn my life has taken. I absolutely love what I do. The creative aspect is my true passion, but learning the business side of life as an entrepreneur has been challenging and exciting.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I might not be the best person to ask. My husband has lived in South Florida since he was a baby so you could almost consider him a native Floridian. I am lucky because he loves to explore and find new places and restaurants for us to try. He does all the legwork and I reap the benefits. I’d say some of our favorite local spots would be Greek Islands Taverna, Abe & Louie, & Hiden. But we also just really love a date night at the Delray IPic.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
This might sound cliche, but so much credit goes to my mom. Besides being the most amazing role model as a mom, I was witness to her transformation from stay-at -home mom to artist. I saw her prioritize herself and her work, and I knew that I could do it too Plus, she’s just a pretty amazing artist!

I would also have to say my mentor, Eydi Myers. She was teaching an abstract art class at The Boca Raton Museum Art School when I decided to rediscover my creative side. She is an incredible artist herself. She continually pushed me out of my comfort zone & encouraged me to take my art to the next level.

Website: www.kellymerkurart.com

Instagram: @kellymerkurart

Facebook: Kelly Merkur Art

Image Credits
So You by Erica Sue (Erica Schmelzer)