Kay Shanley

Welcome to the world of Kay Shanley, a Tasmanian artist whose work celebrates resilience, beauty, and the strength of women entwined with the natural world. Based on the serene East Coast of Tasmania, Kay’s art tells a story of growth and transformation, drawing deeply from her life journey and her love of nature.

Originally from the UK, Kay grew up in the idyllic Kent countryside, where the orchards and quiet country lanes provided refuge from a difficult childhood. These early experiences sparked her profound connection to nature, which now inspires her intricate compositions. Her work weaves together vibrant botanicals, graceful birds, and portraits of women who embody quiet strength and enduring grace.

Influenced by the opulence of Gustav Klimt and the elegance of the Art Nouveau movement, Kay infuses her paintings with bold, radiant colors and shimmering metallic highlights. Each piece exudes a sense of enchantment and vitality, offering a modern take on timeless artistic traditions.

After a successful career in graphic design, Kay returned to her first passion—fine art—and quickly gained recognition as a finalist in the prestigious Henry Jones Art Prize. Her work balances meticulous attention to detail with deep emotional ...

December 2024 - Solo Exhibition: Flourish: Portraits & Petals, Crowded Lounge Cafe and Art Gallery, Latrobe Tasmania