Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelli Hulst.
Hi Kelli, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m Kelli Hulst, artist of Red Bird Art and from as far back as I can remember, creativity has been my constant companion. As a child, art was my source of happiness and a vital way to express myself. The joy of creating has always been a significant part of my life.
My high school years were filled with numerous art classes. By the time I was a senior, I was immersed in independent study, spending countless happy hours in the art room. During that period, I even painted murals on my bedroom walls, turning my personal space into a canvas of my imagination.
Though I didn’t pursue art formally in college, my passion for creativity found an outlet in dance, my other great love. This period kept my creative spirit alive and flourishing.
Life took a different turn when I had kids, which put a pause on my personal artistic pursuits. However, I found joy in crafting with my children, and our kitchen cabinet overflowed with art supplies. Whether it was for the kids or for myself, creativity was always present, quietly building up.
As my children grew older and more independent, I found the time to rekindle my passion for art. It began with jewelry making and other fun crafts. Then, two years ago, I faced a dilemma: I wanted a painting for our dining room but couldn’t find one that resonated with me. So, I decided to create my own. That decision led me to explore big canvases, paintbrushes, and an online art class with Australian artist Laura Horn. This experience opened my eyes to mixed media and countless painting techniques, and I haven’t looked back since.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Here are a few truths I am working through. 1. Creativity doesn’t just drop down from the sky (usually). I do need to show up consistently to foster creativity. 2. Having everything planned out pins me in a corner and does not leave room for me to be creative. 3. A balance is where the magic will happen.
I believe that when creativity finds its way into our lives, our lives are enhanced. Finding ourselves CONNECTED TO CREATIVITY is important for everyone, no matter what your artistic ability is. This connection can happen with making art or viewing art.
Art has been a spot for me to work out my place in this world. It’s allowed me to tackle questions of worth, identity, Art has allowed me to begin to take up space., to say something; leave a mark.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
If I had to describe my art and my practice, I would say it’s intuitive. I don’t necessarily begin with a picture in my head. A lot of the pieces actually start with color. I love color and enjoy playing with what colors look like paired together. My art is a buildable process, which reacts from each mark I make on the canvas or paper.
Because I am a planner and like routine, I find that art gives me a break from all that planning. I do have to resist my natural urges to plan and make it into a checklist, but when I do, PLAY and FUN happen. It’s such a JOY when that occurs and it feeds my life and happiness. All that strict planning was not going to foster a sense of play for me.
You don’t need to be good at it. You don’t need to share it with others. You don’t need have a purpose for it (like hanging it up). It can just BE something that you enjoy and it feels good. And let me also say that it’s a safe space to let go. I don’t “let go” very easily because it can feel scary. Art just for you is safe!! You can throw that paint on the paper and not care where it lands. Scribble on the page and laugh about the squiggly lines. It’s your time!
Places I have hung my art:
Summer House Bed and Breakfast 2024 & 2025
Art on the Island 2024
ARTPRIZE 2024
Tulip Time Poster Contest 2024
Small Works Holiday Art Show (Holland Arts Council) 2024
Stovetop Roasters Coffee Shop,Holland Mi 2025
Muskegon Museum of Art Postcard Salon 2025
Bubbles & Bites Silent Auction 2025
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Holland is such a wonderful community. It’s a great place for raising a family. I think it is also a growing area for the arts. We have a thriving & growing group of people committed to bringing arts to more people. We are also surrounded by other great arts communities; Saugatuck & Grand Rapids. I love the natural resources we get to live by as well! This is just a spectacular place to be inspired creatively!
Pricing:
- Pieces range from $5 & up
- Commissioned paintings start at $30/ hour + supplies
Contact Info:
- Website: https://redbirdart-kellihulst.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellihulst?igsh=cjVjbGRibGh2Yjc1&utm_source=qr
