Hey There

I’m Kristye Addison Dudley.

My father was an architect and taught me to draw when I was a little girl. I would sketch everything from the patterns on the floor to the beautiful hats women would wear in church. At age 8, I was screened for a reading disability. The therapist realized that I could read, but I would rather draw. From that point on, my family supported my creative efforts as an abstract painter, graphic designer, and surface designer.

Born and raised in South Carolina, I earned a BFA in painting and a Master of Science in Graphic Communications (both from Clemson University). I have worked in printing and advertising as a Production Artist, Freelance Graphic Designer, and Art Director; all while pursuing my art career through commissions and gallery exhibitions. I am currently a full-time artist living in northern Virginia with my family.

I am a military wife and mother of two precious children. As a military family, we have moved 7 times in 12 years. One of our most memorable moves was to Italy, where we lived for 5 years. Our time overseas provided the opportunity to travel to 14 countries, and it inspired a change in my subject matter and style of work. I have a passion for dance. I am a former Division I college cheerleader and NFL Atlanta Falcons Cheerleader. I also spent many years as an instructor and choreographer. I have performed around the world entertaining crowds. Apart from an adult ballet class, I am no longer performing professionally, but breaking out into dance isn't uncommon even in the grocery store.

In the Fall of 2020, after a trip to the emergency room, I discovered that I had a rare form of uterine cancer. Within months, I had undergone 2 major surgeries. Today, I am cancer-free and a cancer survivor and I feel so blessed.

ARTIST STATEMENT

I see the figure as a shell for the spirit. I enjoy using impressionistic strokes, featureless faces, and expressive forms to exhibit the universal emotions we all share. I frequently use a palette knife, watercolor, and uncommon materials to open the canvas with vivid textures. In my subject matter, I explore nature, life, and the beauty of emotional self-reflection in the world around us.