Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelli Urabe.
Kelli, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I’d hate to be cliché, but I was one of those kids that was surrounded by the arts starting at a young age. What I was fortunate to have are parents that didn’t discourage me from pursuing a creative future. Born and raised in Hawaii, I decided to venture off the rock in the Pacific and study Digital Art in Oregon. I graduated with a B.S. Degree in Digital Art, and minors in Communication Studies and Fine Art.
One of the biggest challenges in my artistic journey was the post-college job hunt. Getting used to rejection was something I felt I could add to my resume after a while. At one point in my life I had 4 part-time jobs, most of them didn’t have anything to do with what I got a degree in, or let alone utilized it. There were many times where I thought about throwing in the towel, and settling for what I had… but I never gave up.
After living in my college town for three years, & searching for full-time graphic design jobs to no avail, I decided to take the leap and move to California. It was scary, but from then on, my art life took a significant turn, and the decision to move became one of my best decisions to date.
Not only did I land a full-time position as a graphic designer, but I also found myself joining more creative communities. In the fall of 2016, I stepped out of my comfort zone, and participated in my very first curated art show in San Diego. From there, I have met so many other local artists who are very encouraging and oh so inspiring. I’ve always received support from my friends and family, but it’s nice to meet people that not only understand you, but who you can share the artistic journey with.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
My art is all over the place, meaning, I can’t narrow it down to one specific genre or medium. My handle on Instagram is called “A Funny Thing Called Art” (as well as an art blog I started in college) for a reason. Even though my main love is to draw, I always found myself wanting to try out other traditional mediums and creative outlets, including digital art, photography, and videography. Basically, whatever helps me to explore this funny thing called art (See what I did there). Quite honestly, I tend to get bored doing the same thing over and over, and that’s why I like to mix it up.
Even with all that said, overall my style tends to gravitate towards making things cute. I’ve never perceived myself as cool or sexy, so I think that reflects in my artwork. Cute and colors make me happy; I’m pretty much a child. Every now and then I manage to draw something really cool and out of my comfort level, and it always throws me for a loop. I think I’m still trying to figure out what exactly my style is, but in the meantime, I’m just having fun! That’s the way I think art is supposed to be.
How can artists connect with other artists?
Speaking as an introverted person, I would have to say that you need to try and step out of your comfort zone and get out there and meet people! Whether it’s at a pop-up show, or at art shows, or a meetup group. I have met so many artists that way and have had many great conversations with them, either talking about their techniques, or just their stories.
Another thing I would suggest for those who don’t have those opportunities is to get more social on social media. Instead of just “liking” someone’s post, comment on it! Ask other artists questions, or even send them a message once in a while saying you like and support their work. Basically, interact with them if you can, and reply to people that comment and support on your work.
All of this can be awkward at first, but over time you’ll get used to it. Remember, it’s only awkward if you make it awkward. Don’t do it expecting people to always reciprocate, because that is not realistic and I am not going to promise that. However, if you genuinely show artists that you care for their work and journeys, they’ll notice and so will others, and things will likely work out from there.
Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
All of my recent work can be found on Instagram @afunnythingcalled_art, so any follow or comment on there is greatly appreciated. I also have an online store where I sell stickers of my work, and hopefully some other cool products in the future! Additionally, I have a Ko-fi account that I am working to get up to speed to accept commissions. As far as seeing my art in person, I do a lot of shows that are curated/sponsored/produced by Thumbprint Gallery in San Diego. I will normally announce when I’ll be in those on my Instagram, but check them out for their latest shows, and to maybe participate in one yourself!
Contact Info:
- Website: kelliurabe.wordpress.com
- Email: kelli.urabe@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/afunnythingcalled_art
- Other: kmurabe.bigcartel.com
Image Credit:
Kelli Urabe
Getting in touch: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
