Kelly Coates

My name is Kelly, and I'd like to introduce myself. I create wildlife portraits and have a vested interest in nature arts. I live in Idaho, close to the Yellowstone National Park; but, because I grew up in South Carolina, locals find my southern accent and sweet tea cravings amusing.

I've always been a creative person. I visited the animation studio at Disney World in Orlando, Florida, when I was seven-years old. Being able to witness those drawings come to life was incredibly inspiring. I knew I wanted to be a professional artist right then and there.

Because of my father's job, we moved from South Carolina to Atlanta, Georgia. This is where I discovered numerous opportunities for educational and professional advancement. My high school art teacher was so taken with my work that she displayed it at the annual Dogwood Festival. My instructor assisted me in applying to Savannah College of Art and Design, where I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation.

After graduating from college, self-reflection and discovery assisted me in determining what was most important to me. I began to design a life that would allow me to pursue my ambitions and dreams. I believe traditional art has given me a sense of purpose because it allows me to capture beloved pets and exotic animals that would otherwise be difficult to see up close in the wild or at the zoo.

When I was within arm's length of a bison in the winter of 2021, I knew I wanted to specialize in animal portraits. I wanted to capture how incredible it is to be so close to such unusual and stunning animals. Fine art is very therapeutic to me, and it has become a form of meditation for me. My work is inspired by nature's beauty, with a focus on wildlife. I enjoy being in nature and find it to be very healing. Nature allows us to clear our minds in a nonjudgmental setting, allowing us to focus on our true needs.

I hope my drawings and paintings add a unique touch to your home, help you enjoy your day, and provide a brief respite from the stresses of everyday life.