artwork by kelly o'brien
Natural images full of color, shape, and texture have always captivated me, and my artwork attempts to recreate these personal responses. I picked up an ink pen with the intent to challenge myself, make quicker decisions in a more permanent medium, but unexpectedly, a new style emerged. These drawings highlight the surreal within our everyday world, the way sunlight transforms rock into a glowing animal or water can hold secrets.
The pen allows for little error in technical rendering but also forces a trust and confidence in myself to recognize when an image is successful. I am only satisfied with a drawing when my eye is carried from one corner to the next, focusing on intricate details. The piece feels almost interactive. Has something been hidden in the shadows? If I listen closely enough, will the bubbling pool tell me what I know it is hiding from me?
These images not only celebrate the beauty of the Lake Superior area but hopefully provoke memories within the viewers’ minds of their own quiet oasis.
Kelly O'Brien
Duluth, MN
The pen allows for little error in technical rendering but also forces a trust and confidence in myself to recognize when an image is successful. I am only satisfied with a drawing when my eye is carried from one corner to the next, focusing on intricate details. The piece feels almost interactive. Has something been hidden in the shadows? If I listen closely enough, will the bubbling pool tell me what I know it is hiding from me?
These images not only celebrate the beauty of the Lake Superior area but hopefully provoke memories within the viewers’ minds of their own quiet oasis.
Kelly O'Brien
Duluth, MN
Thank you for your interest and for supporting local art!
Kelly O'Brien's artwork and photography have been featured in the Duluth Art Institute's member show, the Park Point Art Fair, The Grand Marais Art Fair, and on award winning book covers for popular regional memoirs. Matted ink drawings are also available at the Blue Lake Gallery in Canal Park as well as The Local Point on Superior St. She has a degree in Studio Art from the University of Wisconsin-Superior, and after gaining experience in conservation and restoration, Kelly is currently working on a second degree in plant studies.
Prints of the pen and ink drawings displayed above are available for purchase, as well as several other drawing prints and framed/unframed photography. Prices range from $25-$50 (plus shipping) and will be quoted on request. Prints vary in size—please ask for more information. Kelly is also willing to work on personalized commissioned projects and will give further details upon request.
Or email Kelly O'Brien at silverpinedesign@yahoo.com.