WOMEN TO WATCH

AMANDA KELLA

ARTIST
AMANDA KELLA ART

After an exciting career in the fashion industry as a jewelry designer, I quit my “real” job to stay home with my boys. As a creative person who can’t sit still, somehow that led me to canvas and paint … and a realization that abstract art is my passion. I’m inspired by fabrics, colors, and interior design. I don’t worry too much about the rules. I just paint what I would want to hang in my own home. Color makes me happy!

PRESSING QUESTIONS

HOW DID YOU KNOW THIS IS WHAT YOU WANTED TO DO?

The first time I ever painted an abstract piece, I literally felt like something clicked inside of me and I just instantly knew I was made to do this.

BIGGEST CHALLENGES OR OBSTACLES YOU’VE FACED IN YOUR CAREER:

Starting my business completely from scratch has been the biggest challenge. Saying yes to every opportunity that has come my way, even when it’s not convenient or comfortable has definitely paid off.

WHAT IS A TYPICAL WORKDAY LIKE?

A typical day for me involves coffee, kids, the gym, errands, and meetings with clients. My favorite time to paint is late at night when the house is quiet and I can turn on music and tune everything else out.

BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED:

Jennie Allen (one of my favorite authors) encouraged me when I first started painting to bravely follow the dreams God places in my heart and not let other people’s opinions, my own insecurities, or fear hold me back.

I WISH I KNEW HOW TO:

Be invisible.

ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE YOUR 18-YEAR OLD SELF:

Live in the moment. Dye your hair pink. Buy the cute shoes. Have fun, O.K.?

BEST CAREER MOMENT SO FAR:

When my very first commission appeared in At Home Arkansas magazine in a gorgeous entryway designed by Katie Henry, I realized this art thing could be more than just a hobby.

FAVORITE PART OF LIVING IN LITTLE ROCK:

Having my family close is the best part of living here, but the outdoor beauty, the local restaurants and shops, and southern charm all make it amazing.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

NEIGHBORHOOD:

West Little Rock

HOMETOWN:

Little Rock

LAST GOOD READ:

“Big Little Lies,” Liane Moriarty

FAVORITE FOOD:

Pizza

FAVORITE LUNCH SPOT:

Anywhere with a patio

FIRST THING YOU DO AT THE OFFICE:

Turn on music

LATEST SPLURGE:

Anthropologie bedding

THINGS YOU DO OUTSIDE OF WORK:

I love to dance and go to the beach

DREAM VACATION:

I’m currently on it! Cabo San Lucas with my sisters and mom!

FAVORITE SONG:

“Got To Be Real,” Cheryl Lynn

SPONSORS