Art Talk with Kelti Smith

How would you describe your personality?

Ha, this is a hard one! I think I’m pretty gentle, loyal, curious, and maybe not as laid back as I initially come across? I’m a total sucker for a good sense of humor or an interesting new perspective on virtually anything.

How long have you been making art professionally, what kind of art do you make and for whom?

I’ve been making art exclusively for about ten years. I’m primarily a painter but I also love drawing and recently launched a line of wallpaper. I love the personal connection of sharing art and most of my work is on a commission basis. 

Did you always know that you wanted to be an artist?

Yes! Growing up, I always had a sketchbook in hand. It’s been a constant in my life for as long as I can remember.

If you weren’t making art, what would you be doing?

Dancing! Or yoga. Both have been an important part of my life for the past twenty years. I’m truly fascinated by moving my body and finding ways to connect with community

Who/What inspires you right now?

Flowers! Always flowers! Any kind but especially loving the textures used by impressionist painters to depict florals. Also, I’m loving Japanese woodblock prints and Japanese design and architectural sensibilities in general . 

Where do you create? Describe that space for us.

I have a sweet little light filled studio at my house. It’s wonderful to have some flexibility as a mother (and it also functions as a bit of an escape, too.)

Where is your favorite place to be?

I love Malibu so much! Such a magical place. The insane sunsets and charming farmers markets are dreamy and comforting at the same time. 

Are you someone who prefers the comfort of returning to the same places again and again or are you always thinking of your next destination?

I think both! I’ve always wanted to visit the Azores in Portugal, Japan, Italy

What kind of souvenirs do you bring back from your travels?

I wish I had a more interesting response to this one but usually searching for fun, oversized t-shirts for our teens.

Which destination is at the top of your bucket list right now?

I’d give anything to ride the Venice Simplon- Orient- Express from Paris, France to Venice, Italy.

What is the last book you read?

Just finished re-reading Kafka On the Shore by Murakami. It’s fun to re-read books from my youth to see how I experience them in a different light. 

What is a skill that you are currently working on?

Line dancing!

Which objects in your home have deep significance to you?

I’m not someone that holds very tightly to objects but I do love our live edge dining room table. My dad and I made it together from a salvaged wood from Hawaii called Monkey Pod. It has really beautiful burling and is truly one of a kind! 

What is one item that you have to have in your bag at all times?

Lip gloss or chapstick.