In this episode of Behind the Brush, Kelly sits down with abstract expressionist Emily Pullin to discuss what it really takes to grow as an artist over time. Emily shares how she went from painting dog portraits to creating layered, emotion-driven mixed-media work, and the unexpected commission that helped unlock her abstract style.

They talk about balancing a full life (teaching, motherhood, and art), why not every opportunity is worth saying yes to, and how to protect your creative energy in a world that constantly demands more. Emily also shares an honest take on social media, burnout, and what it means to create work that's truly yours, even when it doesn't fit neatly into a box.

If you've ever felt pulled in multiple directions or questioned your artistic voice, this one will meet you right where you are.

Key Takeaways:

[0:04:37] From Dog Portraits to Deep Abstraction

[0:02:51] Teacher, Mom, Artist: Designing a Sustainable Week

[0:15:51] Emotion, Faith, and Memory as the Real "Subject Matter."

[0:30:39] Camp in Mississippi: A Place that Paints the Paintings

[0:37:44] Keep Going & Log Off: Guarding Your Creative Soul

Let's Keep the Conversation Going:

Connect with Emily-

• Instagram: http://instagram.com/epullinartwork

• http://kpartcollective.com/collections/emily-pullin

• Favorite Gummy Bears https://www.albanesecandy.com/gummies/worlds-best-branded/wb-favorites/

Connect with Kelly on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/behindthebrush_kellypelfrey

https://www.instagram.com/kellypelfreyart KP Art Collective - http://kpartcollective.com/

https://kellypelfrey.com/