Chris R. Kelly (b. 1987) is an established Texas-based painter. His original work balances movement, visual weight, and composition evoking a sense of calm and peace. Each painting is an emotional prose meant to elevate and bring spaces together.
Kelly’s paintings are held in international collections and shown in galleries and businesses across the U.S. With formative ties to Colorado, Michigan, and Illinois, he began his training at Anderson Ranch Arts Center and later studied jazz and architecture at Bennington College before returning to painting.
Shaped by a background that includes music, design, and the outdoors, his process is both disciplined and intuitive. Working primarily in natural light—often outside—Kelly creates dynamic, modern abstract works from his studio in San Antonio, where he lives with his family.
Contact
Email: chris@crkart.com
Studio: San Antonio, TX (by appointment)
Exhibitions & Representation
Current / Ongoing
Sotheby’s International Realty, Washington, D.C. — select works, 2024–present
Verdant Gallery, Austin, TX
Austin City Hall, Austin, TX — main floor installation (through May 2026)
Studio Steinbomer, Austin, TX — solo exhibition
Bufalina, Austin, TX — solo exhibition
Ezov, Austin, TX — permanent works (entry and bar)
Select Exhibitions
Cohart Sigma Tauri Show, Canopy, Austin, TX — solo paintings, 2024
Chinati Weekend, Alta Marfa, Marfa, TX — solo paintings, 2023
Vinology, Houston, TX — solo exhibition, 2022
The Banton, Austin, TX — group exhibition, 2022
Open Studios & Events
Austin Studio Tour, Red Line Studios — November 2024
Austin Studio Tour, Home Studio — November 2025
Press
Austin Lifestyle Magazine — June 2024, pp. 40–41
Fox 7 Austin, Tierra’s Texas — Episode 11
Collections
Works held in private collections internationally, and on consignment nation-wide, U.S.
Education & Early Training
Anderson Ranch Arts Center — residency studies
Bennington College — studies in jazz and architecture