Comfort Painting

Kelly Darke (b. 1973) is a Metro Detroit fiber artist. Darke creates highly textured hand embroidered abstract art using new and recycled material. She is inspired by neuroscience and art therapy. Her work with texture and color evokes a positive visceral response in the viewer. In addition to abstracts, Darke also creates hand embroidered portraits. Prior to working in fibers, Darke created abstract oil paintings with a similar focus on color, texture, and composition. After the birth of her first child, she shifted her creative practice to using fibers, a more accessible and flexible studio practice.  Darke uses her art to develop techniques to help others find ways to create calmer, more peaceful lives. She has created and presented countless art therapy experientials that can be used as an active meditation to regulate mood.  Darke has written on the therapeutic aspects of art for magazines, an edited book, as well as co-authored a book for art therapy professionals. Creating art and sharing the benefits of art with the community are essential to her work.