Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Shelly now lives in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and now lives in Truro, Nova Scotia with her husband Earle, and son Matthew. Shelly began her artistic career in 1990 after much encouragement from her family and friends. Shelly first started out as a stenciller, stencilling everything from cards, wedding invitations, walls, floors, furniture and fabrics. She then decided to try her hand at stencilling paintings which were very popular. It wasn't until one day a gallery owner told Shelly that she couldn't ask much for her paintings because they were after all "only stencilled", that Shelly decided to put the stencils away and try painting freehand. Shelly has never looked back!

After getting over that hurdle, the next hurdle, or so Shelly thought, was to find out which category she fit into. "I use to consider myself a folk artist, but due to all the contraversey over what is, and what isn't considered folk art, and being told my artwork was too sophisticated, I was confused as to where I fit in. So, after receiving great advise from an artist friend of mine, Bruce, I am happy just calling myself an artist and not trying to put a label on my style of art. I now feel comfortable wearing this title."

A self taught artist, Shelly enjoys experimenting with various styles, colors, textures and techniques. "I am forever learning. I prefer to keep my paintings uncomplicated, and usually never know what I am going to paint until my paint hits the canvas, but as the colors begin to flow, a story begins to unfold. Painting makes me happy! It is the one thing that I can do by myself, where it's all from my own mind, my soul and my imagination". Shelly's paintings explode with bright colors, & warm,loving characters who would be a joy to know.!

Shelly's paintings can be found in numerous private collections around the world. "It makes me happy that I can bring a smile to those who view my work doing something I love to do."

"I am a firm believer that artwork should be affordable to everyone, so I try to offer paintings in a wide range of sizes, starting with my "mini" paintings which measure around 4" x 4" and 3" x 5" and going up from there."

Should you want something especially created for you, Shelly loves doing commission work. So please send her an email, or give her a call!

Visit Shelly's website at: http://www3.ns.sympatico.ca/s.atkinson

Artist Highlights

• ArtWanted.com Gallery:    Art/Drawing Misc.
• Past Clients:    Heifer International, My Table