Every so often, an interview shifts from a simple conversation to something that lingers, reshaping how you see the world. My recent meeting with Tammy Keller was one of those rare moments. Sitting in her light-filled art studio in Venice, I felt like stepping into her inner world—a vibrant, layered reflection of her thoughts, emotions, and unique perspective on art. Tammy isn’t just an abstract painter; she’s a storyteller of color, a weaver of feelings, and someone whose work embodies the spirit of Abstract Expressionism, pulling you into a state of quiet reflection.
Abstract art often stirs debate: is it chaos, or does it speak a language beyond words? For Tammy, it’s neither—it’s balance. “For me, abstract painting is about creating harmony, both on the canvas and within myself,” she shared, her voice thoughtful but sure. With over a decade of experience exploring abstract expressionism, Tammy brings a deeply personal, almost psychological lens to her work. “Each stroke, each layer of color—a response to how I feel in the moment. My paintings are a conversation between me and the canvas.”
Like many, Tammy began her journey into art as a child captivated by the magic of color and form. But life took her down a different path, steering her toward a career as a pharmacist. It wasn’t until she left that world to care for her family that art came rushing back into her life. Evening classes at the Cincinnati Art Academy and later at the Bonita Art League reignited her creativity, and a chance to participate in a student show gave her the nudge she needed.
Yet Tammy’s art came alive when she let go of the need to paint “things” and embraced her fascination with color and emotion. A turning point came during a conversation with another artist who challenged her to paint the feeling instead of the subject. “It was such a freeing moment,” Tammy recalled. “I realized I wasn’t painting for the subject—I was painting for the way the colors made me feel.”
Her process is far from conventional. Tammy experiences synesthesia, a rare condition where sensory experiences blend. For her, colors evoke physical and emotional reactions. “If a color isn’t right, it feels off in my body, like a knot I need to untangle. But when it works, it’s this incredible zing of energy—a sense of completeness,” she explained. It’s not just painting; it’s a dialogue between her senses and her emotions, a pursuit of what she calls “quiet space” on the canvas.
As Tammy describes, quiet space balances busy and calm, where bold colors meet moments of softness and reflection. “Life is noisy—art doesn’t have to be,” she said, gesturing toward one of her works. In it, muted blues and teals flow alongside brighter yellows and touches of earthy reds, creating a composition that feels at once vibrant and serene. “I want my paintings to offer a sense of peace, like stepping into a moment of stillness in an otherwise chaotic world.”
Tammy’s art isn’t confined to her studio. Her work is featured at Burns Gallery on Palm Avenue, and she regularly participates in art festivals where she connects with people curious about abstract art. “I love hearing how my paintings make others feel,” she admitted. “Even if I’m drained from all the ‘peopling,’ those conversations remind me why I do this.”
Her thoughts on abstract art go deeper than technique or aesthetics. Tammy views it as a psychological exercise to map emotions, experiment with vulnerability, and let go of control. “Abstract art is brave,” she said. “It’s not about recreating what you see but trusting what you feel. It takes years to find your voice and even longer to trust it fully.”
As we wrapped up, Tammy reflected on her journey. “I don’t paint to fill a wall,” she said. “I paint to make someone feel something. I want my work to connect, bringing more harmony to our spaces.”
If you’ve never considered abstract art more than random shapes and colors, Tammy Keller’s work will make you rethink everything. It’s not just art—it’s a glimpse into the quiet, beautiful spaces where emotion and creativity meet. Visiting her studio, I left with more than inspiration—I went with a renewed appreciation for the power of art to heal, connect, and remind us of the peace we all need to find.
Photos: iruphotos.com
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