Hello!

I'm Kelsey Barker, a 27 year old mixed media artist and graphic designer currently living and creating in Carbondale, Illinois. My path as an artist has been shaped by movement, curiosity, and a deep connection to the natural world. Raised in Georgia among forests and red clay, I later settled in Louisiana, where the culture, history, and strong sense of community continue to inspire and ground me. While both places deeply influenced the way I see and engage with the world, it was in Louisiana that I began to understand the power of storytelling. Not in words, but instead in colors, textures, and design.

My work is heavily inspired by nature; patterns, imperfections, and the quiet complexity we see all around us. I love integrating organic textures, earthy palettes, and natural forms into my designs and artwork, creating pieces that feel alive and grounded. That connection to nature spills over into my personal life too. Whether I'm collecting odd rocks, walking unfamiliar paths through new woods, or getting lost in music when I paint, I'm constantly chasing that feeling of wonder. The exact feeling I try to bring into every creative project I take on.

I earned my BFA in Graphic Design from Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, Louisiana, where I immersed myself in both the technical and conceptual sides of visual communication. While I developed strong skills in print and web design, branding, and layout, what really stuck with me was the challenge of crafting visual narratives that feel both meaningful and intuitive.

Some of the most formative experiences in my life have happened outside the classroom. One of the highlights of my academic journey was receiving an Artworks Scholarship, which gave me the incredible opportunity to travel to Spain and Portugal with my art department. Exploring the tiled walls of Lisbon, the bold use of color and form in Spanish architecture, and the cultural rhythm of both countries broadened not only my artistic perspective, but my understanding of how art lives in everyday spaces. I came back inspired by the balance of tradition and innovation I saw there. I also had the privilege during my time at Nicholls of attending Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Tennessee, where I studied glass jewelry-making and learned the intricate, meditative techniques behind working with glass. That hands-on experience deepened my appreciation for craftsmanship and taught me valuable lessons about patience, focus, and the beauty found in small details. These themes and lessons continue to influence my work as I carry them into every aspect of my creative process.

Every piece I create is rooted in intention. Made to be felt, not just seen. I want people to feel something when they experience my art or design. To pause. To look a little closer. To connect.

Thanks for stopping by! I'm always open to collaborating, chatting, or just sharing inspiration. I appreciate the time you took to learn a little bit about me.