Meet Kelly Bader | Artist and Realtor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelly Bader and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelly, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
When it comes to risks, for whatever reason I really have never been afraid. If I hadn’t taken the risk to leave my comfortable country laid-back lifestyle in Ohio as a 19-year-old wild child I never would have the life that I live now. I never gave it a second thought when I left Ohio to go explore Colorado. It was all very exciting to me. Fast forward to my 50s; I felt like there was something more I needed to do with my life and with a gentle nudge from my husband I decided to take the risk and create a painting for a friend. At first I was petrified to show him what I painted but I just put myself out there. Never had I felt so vulnerable…but it was well worth the risk. Do I fail sometimes? Of course! But taking risks is what challenges me and makes life so much sweeter!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I come from a family of very talented artists. So talented that I never even gave it a second thought that I might possess the same. I am obsessed with bright colors and that’s how I paint…very colorful. Color makes me extremely happy. I’m most proud of taking the risk and putting myself out there for the world to see. It didn’t matter to me if I failed or succeeded, painting just makes me happy. I’ve learned that all art is beautiful in one way or another. Some people may not care for my way of painting, and that’s just fine and I’m okay with that. Ive been a member of Open Studios, a non-profit organization promoting local Boulder County artists. You are chosen from a jury panel and to be a part of this wonderful organization makes me very proud. In the past year I started creating paintings on Jean jackets. I only use up-cycled clothing. I scour consignment stores, vintage stores, on-line consignments to find my high-end treasures. I wanted to try and upcycle as many jackets, jeans….pretty much anything with smooth fabric that allows me to create my art on. This allows me to curb the environmental effects of the ever-changing fashion market. It’s another opportunity for me to paint something colorful & beautiful for someone to wear and feel wrapped up in the arts. the person who purchases my wearable art gets the opportunity to enjoy it much more with others than if it was hanging on their wall. I’m all about reducing the carbon footprint ….not to add to it.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Living in Boulder, Co, it’s all about the mountains and hiking and biking! There’s nothing quite like the views from the top of a peak. You might even encounter some wildlife; deer, coyote, bobcats, bear! The Mesa trail is a 5.6 mile loop (you can make it longer by adding other trails) and it’s one of my favorites! Mesa trail runs parallel along the Boulder Flatirons and is full of the most stunning scenery. After a hike, then it’s to Pearl Street, a pedestrian mall full of shops, restaurants, art galleries and some very interesting folks! You don’t want to miss the “zip code guy” or the “the guy in a box”. Definitely go to Japango for sushi! The jellyfish tank and my favorite bartender, Stanley! Highly recommend the “Sushi Delight”. End the evening at The Julienne for a little live music on the outdoor patio.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost I would have to thank my mother for inheriting her talent, for sharing her love of art with me as I was growing up. In my mind, I’ve always felt she was slighted the chance to become this famous artist. She had to give up art school to raise us children and then life got in the way and she never pursued it any further. To my husband, Mike, who is my biggest fan (and critic when I need it). He is the reason I am where I am right now in my art career.

With his love and full support, I have been able to create everyday! Every chance he gets he promotes me and my art to the world. Also I must give a shout-out to one of my BFF’s, Becky. She has a degree in art and has given me much needed advice and encouragement and direction in my career. And last but not least, my two BFF’s Kelly and Michele, who are my biggest cheerleaders and always have something positive to say about my art and encourage me everyday to paint with their love and support. And last, a huge thank you to John Hereford for so graciously accepting my first painting with such joy and a big smile!! (And a few tears) You added to my confidence level to keep pursuing my talent and passion.

Instagram: Kellybaderart

Twitter: @kelljbader

Facebook: Kellybaderart

Other: Openstudios.org Open Studios of Boulder