Kelli Swan
Pencil and Pen & Ink Artist
Artist Statement
“I am fascinated by the simplicity of a pencil. It is one of the most basic of tools, and yet it can be used to create images of great complexity and depth. To take that which is simple and basic, and to create with it something moving and inspiring is a personally enriching experience. To me, this creative process is a reflection of life. We all possess very basic tools, and what can be created with these tools is incredibly complex, moving, and full of potential.”
~ Kelli Swan
Artist Biography
Kelli Swan specializes in the striking effect of black and white pencil drawing. Her detailed illustrations depicting a variety of themes have won many awards in prestigious juried art shows. In addition, her drawings have been widely published. Kelli’s artwork resides in collections in Europe, the UAE and the United States. She received her BFA with Summa Cum Laude honors from the University of Akron in Ohio.
Using a variety of pencils, Kelli creates depth and movement through a number of rendering techniques. She begins with research and photograph studies of her subject(s). Next, she explores various creative approaches using a series of rough sketches. These sketches are refined and ultimately lead to a final composition. A completed rendering can require 100 hours or more of work for a large pencil drawing.
Kelli draws her inspiration from a divinely-inspired love of animals and nature.
Kelli owns and operates Cygnet Graphics, the company through which she publishes and sells her work. Her drawings feature the pen name “cygnet” as part of the signature. The word “cygnet” refers to a young swan, as Kelli has expressed herself through drawing since a very young age. Thus the incorporation of Cygnet into her business and drawings.
Kelli’s interests include reading, hiking, swimming, and prayer/meditation. Her favorite blessing on this earth is quiet time spent in the presence of nature.