Kelly is founder and CEO of Hi-Lites Salon & Art Gallery, a twofold entity: a salon serving all textures and identities, and art gallery that displays work from local artists of all ages and levels.
I curate monthly art shows, working with local artists to create accessible opportunities to exhibit their work and connect with new audiences. I am also a professional artist inspired by the spirituality of yoga, color interactions, interpretations of the Tree of Life, and botanical art.
In November 2025, I live painted at the Burchfield Art Center (Buffalo, New York) and partnered with COTY in December 2025 for a multi-day holiday event, painting perfume bottles/customization in Sephora and ULTA.
I'm a New York State Licensed Cosmetologist, providing hair and makeup services for textures and identities. My background in both art directly influences my stylist identity. I specialize in silk press, color & blonde services.
My academic background includes a BA from the University at Buffalo & before transitioning into the beauty industry. I completed a 1,000-hour cosmetology program at The Salon Professional Academy.
I am a 200-hour Certified Yoga Instructor, with experience teaching public and private classes. I also created the Sunday Candlelight Yoga Series.
My Story
It was April 2022 when I first wrote the words “salon” and “art gallery” together in the pages of my humble grey bullet journal. My passion was always in gallery operations and curating, and I truly love my career as a hair stylist. I now own the salon I used to clean, creating a space that is both a hair salon and an art gallery.
Hi-Lites Salon & Art Gallery was officially established 1st January 2024. Our February art show took place less than one month after launch. I represent local artists of all levels, and display my own paintings as well. Collectively, thousands of dollars of art has been sold through the gallery.
As a stylist, I am proud to create an inclusive environment to re-establish trust in salons & stylists. I work with all hair textures, ages & identities, ensuring that anyone in my chair receives a high-quality service and education. My clients feel safe and comfortable.
My mission is to celebrate the empowerment of artists, enhance inner and outer beauty, and create opportunities that facilitate meaningful connections.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect!
716-263-6613