After earning a business degree and pursuing a corporate career throughout her early twenties, Kelsey Johnson decided it was time for a change. In 2018, Johnson would leave her sales career to pursue artistry full time and started the KRae Artwork & Illustration Company.
Having lived for several years in a rental in Bozeman, Johnson decided it was again time for a change.
"Our dream of moving somewhere quieter in the valley came true, and we purchased our first home in Three Forks in November," she said.
The change in scenery would pay huge dividends for Johnson.
"This opened the door to a previously impossible opportunity – opening a studio and public gallery for the creation and display of my artworks," Johnson said.
On January 28, she officially opened The Studio Gallery located at 12 E. Cedar in Three Forks.
The Studio Gallery has original artworks and framed and unframed artwork prints for sale.
Interested in art since her childhood and self-taught, Johnson works primarily in the mediums of oil paint and graphite pencil.
"My works can be described as traditional western and wildlife realism with a focus on figures and portraiture," she said.
Now several weeks since officially opening, Johnson is pleased with the reception from the community.
"It's been great since opening. The community has been so welcoming, and the space is perfect for my workflow and productivity. Whether shopping for an original painting to add to your collection, a gift for a friend, or just want to admire the art; I hope everyone can come enjoy The Studio Gallery," Johnson said.
The Studio Gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and can be found online at www.kraeartworks.com or on Instagram @k_raeartworks.