Kelly Ann Swartz is an artist and curator mainly working with gouache & acrylic paint, and occasionally including magazine collage. Her portraits celebrate underrepresented feminine figures and explore concepts of beauty & self-improvement through solitude.
Also a botanical artist, Kelly makes watercolor from dried flowers exclusively harvested from her garden. The colors are irreplicable and unique to the season in which they were harvested. She also creates mini sculptures of dried flowers preserved in glass and oils or acrylic resin.
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Kelly hopes that viewers will identify with the vulnerable stories told in her work and creatively reconnect with the natural world.
She currently resides in Buffalo, New York, and is the founder and owner of Hi-Lites Salon & Art Gallery.
Artist Statement
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I am a multi-talented, hands-on creative: a hair stylist, visual artist, barista, designer, and more. My work is inspired by the process of request followed by actions that result in an observable, aesthetically pleasing change.
A solo black female frequently appears to mirror my subconscious reality as an only child and adoptee. I celebrate realistic feminine bodies that are often overlooked and explore concepts of beauty & self-improvement through solitude. I wish for viewers to feel joy and get lost within the peaceful elements and vibrant colors of my collection. I want women to identify with the bodies and vulnerable stories told in my work, then feel empowered to live and create authentically.
Written By: Kelly Ann Swartz
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, over $2000 of art has been sold through the gallery. A "First Friday" art show is held most months of the year.
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 aftercare education. My clients express that they feel safe, validated, and are pleased with my work.
My mission is to celebrate the empowerment of artists, enhance inner and outer beauty, and create opportunities that facilitate meaningful connections.
I am honored and extremely grateful for the opportunity to live in purpose, serve my community, and continue to use my God-given talents to create wonderful experiences.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect!
716-263-6613