Kely's Biography

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• Kely's Biography

Kely Knowles, Artist in Residence, has lined the barn’s walls with her exquisite renderings of Cape Cod since opening the gallery in 1995. The precision and gentle tones of her palette are expressed through original watercolors, giclee fine art prints, cards and tiles.  Portrait Commissions are a specialized offering.

Working as an artist since 1972, Kely has developed a style rewarded by awards and credibility. Rhode Island School of Design helped form a strong foundation; continued education was achieved in workshops, free-lance art work, and a large library of art publications.  Experience and developed skills in art are now the backbone to marketing ventures.

“As an artist I am a passionate, intense observer of the world around me.  Watching colors reflect on objects in shadow and light, and watching shapes change, captures my attention and compels me to interpret with pencil, and watercolor.  Fascination with color is my key to freedom of expression. I am drawn to watercolor by the spontaneity and surprise of this medium. Applying watercolor in layers creates luminosity and depth.  Simplifying complex scenes and subjects provides the stage for amazing visual effects;   shapes and colors form a harmonious balance.  Drawing is a passion that induces calm and helps me fall asleep at night. (Sketches will soon be featured in the gallery.)

I have focused on drawing and watercolor for 38 years and the success of the gallery reflects my strong sense of accomplishment and the feeling of mastering something very important to my well being.”

Kely shares her talents through teaching popular classes at the gallery and at the Cape Cod Museum of Art.

Kely invites you to “Come, visit us, and take a tiny piece of Cape Cod home with you.”

Family is close although located on opposite coasts: California, Florida, and Boston.  The children grew up on Cape Cod and the Cape is a nice place for them to return, a key reason for moving here in 1987.  I enjoyed raising them and miss it, although time is clearly gained in the empty nest.  Husband David built the gallery, the display tables and everything else necessary for the art business to function. Rock Harbor Gallery reflects two creative minds working in harmony.

Financially supporting my work is a challenge that keeps me humble. I am very  thankful for the opportunity to be an artist, not to mention having water, electricity, and food.

I am very proud to be the owner of Rock Harbor Gallery.