kel yates artist

BIO

I am a practising multidisciplinary artist with a Diploma of Art Therapies (Distinction), a Bachelor of Media & Communications (Distinction) and am working towards a Masters of Visual Art. My mission is to improve accessibility to arts practice, advocate for healing and connect community through creative and expressive modalities. In the hope of facilitating and supporting a more accessible and integrated way for people to manage our emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing.

I have worked as an arts facilitator with children from ages 4 - 17 and with people with disabilities. I love sharing in creativity and am inspired by how we express ourselves so uniquely, yet this expression is what connects us in our human experience. I have trained in Yoga, meditation and am a Reiki Master and strongly believe contemplative practices inspire our connection and awareness of the larger cosmic event unfolding in and around us, helping us to realise our significance and connection to all life.

A woman with shoulder-length, wavy hair and a broad smile, wearing a silver, sequined top.

What I Offer

Whether it’s a creative companion or a gentle ear, I offer space and safety for you to be seen, heard and expressed in your innate creative wholeness. Bring everything you are, I’m here for it.

  • Art workshops for children and adults, exploring a range of materials and techniques and incorporating mindfulness and energetic awareness to promote authentic individual creative expression

  • My artwork is available for purchase. Please contact me for more information whilst my online store is being developed

  • Fun and creative, expressive art parties for children and adults

  • I am a trustworthy and supportive guide and companion for reconnecting with and exploring your innate creative expression and capacity

  • As a Reiki Master I offer in person and distance Reiki Healings. I also incorporate Reiki into art and meditation workshops and retreats

CV

EDUCATION

2025        Master of Visual Art, Griffith University QCAD

2023        Diploma of Art Therapy (Distinction), Ikon Institute

2016         Certificate III Hairdressing

2014          Bachelor of Mass Communication (Distinction), QUT

2012          Certificate of Visual Merchandising and Styling, VM+ The Prop House

                      Level 1 Photography, Design College Australia

2006           Year 12 Certificate, OP 3, St Aidan’s AGS

AWARDS, GRANTS & FELLOWSHIPS

2025       Moreton Bay Art Prize Finalist

2025       The Path Primer with Dr. Kellie O’Dempsey

2023       Celebrating Expression: Exhibition of Outstanding Student Work, Ikon
Institute

2009       Golden Key Honour Society

2007        Executive Deans Commendation for High Academic Achievement

EXHIBITIONS

2025        Moreton Bay Art Prize, Pine Rivers Gallery, Strathpine

2024        Matthew Flinders Art Prize, Bribie Island

2024 Paradise Gloss – Next Edition, Group Exhibition, Side Gallery, Brisbane

2023 Echo, Group Exhibition, Side Gallery, Brisbane

2023 Petite Pieces, Group Exhibition, Aspire Gallery, Brisbane