About 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 community is really important to Kelly. She is an active member of her local weavers 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.
Notable Events
August-October 2025 - Kelly directed and curated a group gallery show featuring herself and five other textile artists for the Durham Art Gallery.
September 2025 - Awarded CenterFest Best Durham Artist by the Durham Arts Council.
March - April 2024 - Kelly was a scholarship student at Penland School of Crafts studying under Andrea Donnelly
September 2023 - Centerfest Artist Merit Award 3rd Place, by the Durham Arts Council
May 2020 - June 2023 - Resident Artist at Liberty Arts
February 2020 - American Craft Council Randall Darwall Grant Recipient
May 2019 - Participated in the One Acre Exchange show at The Carrack Modern Gallery.