About Kelly
My
Story
Hi there… I’m Kelly!
After nearly 40 years, I left the fast-paced world of high end management consulting where I worked with organizations in transforming their mission critical processes to be more efficient and effective, and better serve their stakeholders. While this work was satisfying, it never really scratched that one deep itch. I left McKinsey & Company with the goal of spending time on my passions and what makes me tick.
For me, travel and fine arts have always been my passion. I love the journey of experiencing a new destination; I also love the journey of creating a piece of art. They both put me in a space where I can relax, explore and be mindful.
I distinctly remember my first art classes the summer before kindergarten; they were near the shores of Lake Michigan in an artsy community. I was hooked! In high school, one of my pieces was on exhibit at the Hackley Museum of Art in Muskegon, Michigan. A piece also traveled on the Art Train throughout Michigan. I've continued to take art classes in a variety of mediums in the decades since. However, between being a mom and my professional life, art always took a back seat, until now...
I am equally passionate about travel. I've been fortunate to travel significantly for both work and pleasure throughout my life. I love exploring the land as well as the culture. In fact, I am even an accredited Travel Agent - purely for the joy of travel!
As you can see, art and travel are my passions. And I've combined the two in the Artful Traveler! The Artful Traveler is an online community of travel loving artists and hobbyists who creatively explore iconic global destinations. Together, we will virtually travel to popular locations to study landmarks, landscapes, lifestyles and cultures through online art instruction.
I hope you join me on this journey!
Kelly
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Get in Touch
Frequently Asked Questions
Membership and Access
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What’s included in Artful Traveler Atelier?
Atelier members will be invited to weekly online classes and a private Facebook group. Time spent on a destination can vary from one to two months. Over that time period, the following classes will be presented (one new class per week):
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Beyond Brushstrokes – Historical, geographical and cultural deep dive on the destination
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Atelier Etude – Step-by-step painting lessons
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Atelier Academie – Skill-building exercises
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Atelier Opus – Full destination-inspired paintings
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Atelier Adieu – Celebration and reflections on the recent destination
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Atelier - Exclusive community to share work, connect and engage!
2. How long do I have access to the content?
Artful Travelers will have full access to all materials for the duration of their membership. This includes access to all classes from past and future destination modules as well as all Academie skill building exercises.
3. Is the content self-paced or live?
Classes are live for extra engagement, but replays are always available for those who can't make the live times, for those who are catching up on previous destinations and for those who simply want to re-watch
4. Can I cancel anytime?
Yes, of course! Members of Artful Traveler Atelier can cancel anytime
Learning and Painting Experience
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Do I need to travel to participate?
Nope! Artful Traveler Atelier brings the experience of travel to you through virtual painting experiences and cultural explorations.
2. Do I need prior painting experience?
Not at all! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, our lessons are designed to be approachable for all skill levels.
3. What materials or supplies do I need?
Once you register, you will receive the detailed list of recommended supplies, but generally, you’ll need:
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Acrylic paints (or a different medium, if you prefer - we use acrylics)
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Paintbrushes
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A painting surface (canvas, paper, or panel)
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A palette for mixing colors
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Water and paper towels
4. Will I get feedback on my work?
Yes! You can share your artwork in our Atelier - a private Facebook group, where fellow Artful Travelers and instructors can offer encouragement and insights
5. Can I sell the artwork I create during Artful Traveler Atelier courses?
Yes! Artful Traveler grants you full permission to sell any artwork you create within the Atelier, whether it's inspired by the lessons or a direct result of the course modules. Your art is yours to share, exhibit or sell—no additional licensing or approval is needed. We simply ask that, if sharing or selling your work publicly, you credit Artful Traveler Atelier as the educational source that helped shape your creative process. A small nod like “Created during my studies with Artful Traveler Atelier” is greatly appreciated.
We love seeing your creativity take flight and support your artistic journey in every way!
Unique Features and Upcoming Destinations
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What makes Artful Traveler Atelier different from other online painting memberships?
Most painting courses focus only on technique, but Artful Traveler Atelier combines art with the magic of travel. Each module immerses you in the landscape, culture, history and artistic traditions of a new destination.
2. What destinations will be featured next?
We love keeping the next destination a mystery for a bit of adventure! However, members will get hints and teasers before each new location is revealed.