I became an artist in order to better process my experiences in the world. Growing up in a small rural town, I did not have access to art or traditional art supplies. Because soup cans, cereal boxes, books, and nature were the art I was exposed to growing up, I enjoy using common materials like textiles to create my work.
After completing my BFA in painting and Art History at Texas A&M - Commerce, I went on to complete my MFA in Studio Art at Texas Christian University with a full scholarship. I have accepted artists' residencies in Vermont and New York.
I have exhibited in shows internationally and my work can be found in private collections both nationally and internationally. Reviews of my art have been published in ARTNews and The Dallas Morning News.
When I am not in my Dallas studio, I am reading with my boys, knitting, or watching movies.
Artist Statement:
Shelley has always loved nature, stories, and textiles. She has translated her love of those things into mixed media paintings that are energetic and expressive. “I strive to create work that transports you into a joyful space. Some of my favorite memories as a child are when I would spread out on my grandmother's quilt in a field of tall grass and daydream. To this day, I can still hear the wrestling sounds of the grass and trees. Those are the moments I reflect on when I am painting.”
