Meet Kelly Villasenor

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Villasenor.

Kelly, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I always loved sketching as a child and graduated with a graphic design degree from Washington state. I had lots of different jobs while raising three boys including owning a clothing boutique, interior design and eventually doing murals in the late 90’s which brought me to San Diego. Although I had an art degree I never actually learned to paint in college, it was more focused on design & illustration. Six years ago I started painting and am pretty much self- taught using books and online videos for tips and instruction. I started selling my work almost immediately realizing this could actually be a career!

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I would say, like most artists the sales & marketing part is always a challenge, first it is so hard to be self- promoting and quite honestly, I would just rather be just creating! I have surprised myself with the technology ( creating a website) and doing social media, which is a huge part of my sales.

Tell us more about your art.
I would say my style as an artist is painting very familiar scenes with vibrant colors and warm inviting images. My beach people are very recognizable- swimming, boogie boarding enjoying the beautiful weather and beaches we have. I love to photograph people at the beach and use them in my paintings.

Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
That is an interesting question because I look at luck more in terms of blessings, which have been abundant in my life! Not so much material things but people and opportunities for sure. I believe that God gives all of us qualities & gifts for different reasons. All the talent that I have is from above!