How Esther Kelly’s Art Brings Ordinary Moments to Life in Unexpected Ways
Esther Kelly is a passionate and adventurous artist whose life has taken her from the Netherlands to Alaska. She shares how her love for travel, culture, and bold colors has shaped her work and how every experience, from sign painting to flying planes, fuels her creativity.
In this conversation, Esther talks about what inspired her to become an artist, her challenges, and how she transforms ideas into powerful paintings. She also reflects on a deeply personal piece that helped her through difficult times, showing how art can be a source of healing and strength. Through her words, we learn about resilience, exploration, and the power of color to bring joy and energy into the world.
Esther Kelly was born and raised in the Netherlands. She has traveled to many countries and lived in several. She loves cultures and the riches they bring to our world. New things are a part of her identity. She loves to explore and appreciates diversity. “Traveling and exploring is my inheritance,” she notes. “It’s in my DNA. I am drawn to extremes.” Esther enjoys exchanging ideas through conversation, imagery, or cultural heritage. She delights in finding new possibilities with every creative journey she takes. “We Dutch love to explore the world over the waters,” she says. “We invariably look beyond the horizon to discover new things.” The exchange of information and the drive to catch a new vision that could be widely communicated led Esther to develop her visual communication skills.
She spent years working in the graphic design industry, painting signs for commercial use. Those experiences equipped her to create artistic imagery containing positive visual messaging. The strong lines and vibrant colors inherent in her graphically inspired artworks are peaceful and joyful, brilliant glimpses of possibilities over the horizon. The artist currently resides in Alaska, and her most recent works depict the vast Northern landscape she now calls home. Her signature bold lines, high chroma colors, and soothing geometric structure continue to be defining features of her work, acting as anchor points to ensure she remains true to her artistic vision. Esther creates with purpose as she navigates new territory, staying on course as her work develops. “I have always known how to keep my eye on the North Star,” Esther remarks. “If you know how to find it, you know where you are and how to get back home. You will never be lost.”
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?
I was born and raised in the picturesque landscape of The Netherlands, where my passion for the arts was nurtured from an early age. My formal education began with a deep dive into the study of the old masters, whose works have left an indelible mark on the world of art. I attended the creative vocational school, Nimeto, where I learned the intricate process of making paint and the myriad ways in which it could be used to enhance the beauty of our surroundings. My education was comprehensive and profoundly inspiring, from house painting and collision work to restoring ancient church frescos. My journey took an unexpected turn when I was offered an apprenticeship in Maastricht to work with one of the masters in fresco restoration. The opportunity was a dream come true, but financially, I could not afford to make the move to Maastricht. This detour led me to the world of sign painting, an art form that opened up a whole new realm of possibilities. As a sign painter, I discovered a vibrant intersection of art and practicality. My skills flourished, and I started my own company with newfound confidence.
Seeking new horizons, I eventually moved to Germany, where I continued to hone my craft for 12 years. During this time, my expertise expanded, and I embraced the diverse opportunities that came my way. In a bold and adventurous move, I relocated to Alaska. There, I joined a fledgling sign shop that was brimming with potential and eager to learn. My experience and knowledge proved invaluable to the shop’s growth, and Alaska became my new home. In 2019, armed with years of experience and a passion for teaching, I once again took the leap to start my own business. This time, it was in the serene and inspiring wilderness of Alaska. Today, I am a full-time artist and teacher dedicated to sharing my love for art with others. My journey from The Netherlands to Alaska has been one of discovery, growth, and unwavering dedication to the craft that has shaped my life.
As a rule, I love to move quickly and explore new territories. Whether riding my motorcycle in the Netherlands, racing on the Autobahn in Germany, or learning to fly a plane in Alaska, I perpetually seek new adventures and push myself to new heights.
Esther Kelly
2. What inspired you to become an artist?
I have always been artistic and have been drawing my whole life. From a young age, I found joy in bringing my imagination to life on paper. My sketchbook became filled with different creations I gave away or created for others. In 2019, I made the decision to become a professional artist. The catalyst for this transformation was a realization that life is too short to devote my time and energy to a company that grows at my expense. I wanted my efforts and experiences to fuel my own growth. The journey has not been without its challenges. Embracing the life of an artist means navigating a world of uncertainty, with financial instability and creative blocks being just a few of the hurdles.
Yet, despite these difficulties, the path I have chosen has been undeniably rewarding. The freedom to create without constraints, to explore new mediums, and to share my work with an appreciative audience has brought me immense satisfaction. Each piece I complete is a reflection of my personal journey and growth as an artist. Ultimately, the decision to pursue art professionally was driven by a desire to live authentically and passionately. My hardships have only strengthened my resolve and deepened my appreciation for the art I create. This journey, though hard at times, has been worth every moment.
3. What is your creative process like from start to finish?
My creativity is a force that flows through my mind; an idea starts with a spark—like a vision that I must capture before it fades into space. The journey starts on paper but can quickly transfer to digital tools, to canvas, walls, and cars, there is a constant thread of evolution. Each medium offers its own set of challenges and rewards, pushing me to adapt and innovate. The process of expanding an idea across different formats is a testament to the versatility in my experiences with different ways to express art and my travel background, allowing spontaneity to guide my process and trusting my instincts to lead me to new creative heights.
4. Where do you find inspiration for your artwork?
This sounds so cliche, but mostly when I move or travel, that can be from driving in my car on my way to the grocery store or flying over the glaciers of Alaska. I see art and opportunities quickly; the challenge is not to forget.
My artwork reflects my bold and adventurous spirit. My strong lines and vibrant colors represent the energy and joy I bring to each painting I create.
Esther Kelly
5. Can you tell us about a particular piece of art that holds special meaning for you?
One of the most personal pieces in my portfolio is an oil painting titled “Under the Shadow of His Wings.” This artwork is part of my private collection and holds profound significance for me. I created it during a particularly challenging and arduous period in my life. The act of painting became a refuge, and the image itself served as an anchor, providing solace and strength when I needed it most. The symbolism in this piece is rich, representing protection, comfort, and resilience. It is a testament to the power of art to heal and sustain, a reminder of the inner strength that can be found even in the darkest times.
Esther Kelly’s art is more than just color on canvas—it’s a journey, a feeling, and a story of resilience. She turns everyday moments into something extraordinary, whether inspired by a drive to the grocery store or the vast Alaskan landscape. Her work reminds us to embrace adventure, find beauty in change, and never lose sight of our “North Star.” To learn more about Esther, visit the links below.
