Check Out Lily Kilpatrick-Zelina’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lily Kilpatrick-Zelina

Hi Lily, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 2020, after my maternal grandmother passed away, I found myself searching for solace and a way to process the loss. Painting became my escape, a means to cope with the grief. I was juggling three part-time jobs to support myself through college at the time, but the pandemic and other circumstances left me without them. With my college expenses looming, I made the decision to start selling my artwork and created a small business, LK Art Creations.

The venture was more than a source of income; it was a therapeutic outlet and a way to honor my grandmother’s memory. However, when I started teaching full-time, I decided to put LK Art Creations on hold, focusing all my energy on the classroom.

Early this spring, I got married and felt a renewed inspiration to paint. In July, I relaunched my business under a newish name, LKZ Art Creations, hoping to take it in a fresh direction. I’ve spent the last few months diving back into painting, experimenting with new techniques, and rekindling my passion for art. I aim to use the proceeds from LKZ Art Creations to save for a new dream—our first home together.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Back in 2020, things came together unexpectedly well—I had steady sales and quickly grew a social media following without too much struggle. But since relaunching as LKZ Art Creations, I’ve realized how much has changed in just a few years. Navigating the new social media algorithms and learning about SEO has been a steep learning curve. Despite my efforts, sales and growth have been slower than I’d hoped, which can be disheartening.

But I’m not one to give up easily. I’m determined to keep building my brand, and I’ve started branching out to attend local craft shows to connect with people in person and share my art with the community. There’s a lot of hard work ahead, but I’m committed to getting my name out there and making this dream come to life.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Alongside my full-time role as a high school teacher, I pour my weekends into my art practice, embracing the quiet hours to experiment and grow. I focus on abstract florals, brought to life with vibrant acrylics, where each piece explores color, texture, and form. Lately, I’ve also begun experimenting with watercolors, testing new techniques to broaden my range and bring a fresh perspective to my work.

I’m most proud of the growth I see with each piece I create. With every new canvas, I notice my technique evolving, my strokes becoming more confident, and my understanding of color deepening. It’s a quiet journey of self-discovery and progress, and seeing that growth reflected in my work has been incredibly rewarding.

What sets my paintings apart from others is their unique blend of color and intricate detail that brings each piece to life. Using bold, vibrant colors paired with fine lines and a mix of organic shapes creates a striking visual contrast. Each painting feels dynamic and expressive, capturing a sense of movement and liveliness, especially with the playful arrangements of flowers and other natural elements. There’s a sense of whimsy in the designs that feels joyful and imaginative. This attention to color, pattern, and detail makes these pieces stand out and draws the viewer in for a closer look, allowing them to appreciate the layers and textures within each artwork.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was a blend of creativity, curiosity, and independence. I loved diving into books, disappearing into other worlds and stories. Crafts were my way of expressing myself, and I couldn’t resist learning new skills. I picked up crochet at eight years old, knitting by ten, and sewing by thirteen. By the time I was fourteen, I’d ventured into painting with acrylics; my first paintings, a cardinal and a blue jay, were special gifts for each of my grandmothers—a way to share my creativity with those I loved.

I had an outgoing, fun-loving personality, but I also valued my moments of peace and quiet. I’d happily spend hours in my own space, working on a project or exploring a new craft. My independence was something I took pride in; I enjoyed doing things on my own and figuring things out by myself. Those early years were a mix of vibrant activity and peaceful solitude, a balance that shaped who I am today.

Pricing:

• Bookmarks are $3
• Mini prints (7in x 5in) are $7
• Most paintings are between $20-50

Contact Info:

• Website: https://lk-creations.square.site/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lkz.art.creations/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lkz.art.creations/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@lkzartcreations