“My artwork takes me on many journeys every day, because it opens doors for me, allows me to take many paths by experimenting with different art mediums, and allows me the opportunity to meet many different interesting people.”

Kelley McAdams has a passion for children's literature, and used her submission to illustrate a recent trip to the Southwest. As a Midwesterner, the adventure led her to discover the mountains, wildlife, and extreme temperatures of the area. The playful imagery within her painting captures the freshness of her perspective. Kelley, who has dyslexia, shares, "Art has allowed me to express myself, when words were not there for me." One of her goals is to write and illustrate her own children's books. Kelley has nurtured her talents through numerous art classes and independent tutors, and has volunteered for four years in a local art center. "Art is an area that I feel I can excel in, and it allows me the ability to tell stories and express my innermost feelings without doing negative things like taking drugs or abusing alcohol."

Three on the Run, acrylic on canvas (20" x 16")