Back to School
There is something wonderful about returning to the basics and allowing yourself to be a student again. There is also something excitingly terrifying at the same time.
A lot of things were disappointments last year, thus leading to the 2026 mentality of “throw all the noodles at the wall and see what sticks”, a few fellow artists and I may throw our heads back and laugh together at this, because to our surprise many of those noodles have stuck to the wall. One of those noodles was an acceptance to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), Master’s of Fine Art (MFA), Painting program. I couldn’t believe it, and honestly still pinch myself to make sure I am in current reality.
This rigorous program has reshaped my approach to so many elements of my business, studio, and practice already…and I am only at the beginning. I say that and document it here as a reminder and pinpoint to intentional change in myself and my work. Foremost, my time has been structured differently. This strict regimen is set in place to create habits that will carry through and contribute throughout my day to day. Some things are limited, others amplified, and logistics have a seamless approach even more-so than before.
Let me take a mini trip with you on the dreams of High School Kellene, and how she wanted to go straight into art school. I had my heart set on Moore College of Art and Design in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was the study, the artistic atmosphere, the networking, the growth that I felt I needed…..long story short, I did not end up going due to funding, distance, and worry of a single-mother raising three kids on her own. At the time, it may or may not have worked out and placed me stride ahead of where I am today (sooner than later). With much maturity in my work and life now I can approach learning with a different lens.
The pursuit of technique, knowledge, interpretation, performance, and overall practice in this program have already proven invaluable. Of course I have made some incredible friends already and look forward to expanding those relationships and network even more. There is something really fun about being an adult and creating new friendships, because sometimes that is really hard! Honestly, I have to practice communication and connecting with others because it is taken for granted in all the ways you can access relationships.
I look forward to having you along for this journey. I am going to add, if you know me…you know it is hard for me to do something for myself, and where this is a huge outward investment in my community, studio, and gallery, it is a great investment and gift to myself. Staking claim on this investment has been a long awaited dream that I am incredibly grateful for.
Stick around or start here to continue to follow my artistic journey and this pivotal point in pouring back into me.
Did I mention the nervousness and excitement hit me every time I log into class? <— because I’m human. :) There are some beyond inspiring creatives out there, from all over the world, and I get to connect with them! What a blessing!!!!
I look forward to sharing more with you, thank you for hanging in there till the end!
-Kellene Turner