Who Is Kelly?
Artist Biography
Kelly Walsh is a hand weaver living and working in Durham, North Carolina. She worked as a web developer for years before deciding to leave the tech industry to follow her textile artist dreams. Her work has been exhibited in several galleries and shows in North Carolina including the Museum of Life and Science, the Durham Art Guild and the Greenhill Center for NC Art.
Kelly has never come across a weaving or dyeing technique that she didn't want to try, and loves taking classes that explore all the different ways to play with fiber.
Finding deep connections in her local weaving and fiber communities is really important to Kelly. She is an active member of her local weaving guild, teaches beginning weaving classes, and is working to grow her regional fibershed group.
Artist Statement
My artistic practice is centered on the principles of tactility, sustainability, and functionality. I am fascinated by the tactile nature of textiles and their practical purpose in our daily lives. I work exclusively with natural fibers, and seek out sustainably grown, processed and dyed yarn wherever I can. Each piece I create is meticulously woven from countless individual strands of yarn on mechanical floor looms. I like exploring color and texture to bring my cloth to life, giving it beauty as well as purpose. My goal is to evoke a desire to engage with my art; I want you to feel compelled to touch and experience the texture of my fabrics. My passion for weaving is motivated by the pursuit of creating functional art that enhances people's lives and contributes positively to the environment.
