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My creative career began with a BFA in graphic design where I worked as designer/art director in the advertising field. Seeking new inspiration, I eventually went back to college to study interior design, which sparked the launch of my own painted furniture business.
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These days, you can usually find me in my fine arts studio creating vivid, colorful landscapes and still lifes in acrylic and gouache. My artistic approach focuses deeply on the interaction between light and dark. It’s a philosophy I carry into my own life as well—knowing that answers are often found hidden in the shadows.

Q & A  Artist Interview

How did you first decide to study art in college?

Growing up, I was encouraged to make art. Influenced by this passion, I faced a decision between pursuing the arts and a more conventional career path. Despite pressure to choose a "safer" field to avoid the "starving artist" stereotype, I realized that only a major in art would truly make me happy. This decision led to a BFA in Graphic Design, which ended up being a successful career in advertising. Looking back, I'm glad that I was able to make a decision that prioritized my happiness and ultimately led to a more rewarding life!

How has your style changed over the years?

Like many artists, I started out in realism. I became obsessed with developing my style. I found that I loved the looser style of brush strokes which translated into what I would describe as Modern Impressionism. My particular painting style is comprised of bold brushwork, vibrant color and examining the contrasting relationship between lights and darks.

Why acrylic paint as a medium? 
I never committed to a specific medium until I took a class in acrylic painting around the start of the Pandemic. Back then, I had time to practice my painting skills and experiment with acrylics. I love the fact that it is less toxic than oil, easier to paint in layers, and drying time is relatively fast.

What is a surprising fact about yourself?
I played the violin from age 9-14. I was a member of the Columbia Youth Orchestra. We played in front of several large concert audiences when I started to suffer from stage fright. I was so afraid of making an error that I would sometimes “fake it” by holding my bow above the strings and never making a sound with my instrument. I found out that I was an excellent actress! Of course, my stage fright would never allow me to pursue that avenue either.

© 2025 by Frankie Kellum. Created with Wix.com

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