Karrie Steely is an artist, researcher, and cultural advocate. Her creative work delves deeply into process: observation, research, experimentation, embodiment, and sharing. Her experiences manifest as art as experience, creative leadership, and community collaborations.
The Vision
“At the core of my artistic practice are three guiding principles: connection, creativity, and community.
Connection: I believe that art is the great connector—between people, between ideas, between the self and the world. I use my creative practice to deepen my relationship with the natural world, inviting others to see the beauty and complexity of the landscapes that surround us. I grow connections within communities, bridging divides and nurturing empathy and understanding.
Creativity: Creativity is not just a skill to be cultivated, but a fundamental aspect of what it means to be human. I am committed to nurturing creativity in myself and others. I approach each project with curiosity and experimentation, embracing the unknown and celebrating the ways we can learn together.
Community: Community is the heart of everything I do. I believe in the power of collaboration and collective action to make positive change in the world. Whether through community art projects, workshops, or creative mentoring, I am dedicated to creating spaces where everyone's voice is valued and celebrated.”
“Art isn’t a noun, it’s a verb.”
Karrie Steely is an artist, researcher, and cultural worker. Her creative process emphasizes curiosity, experimentation, embodiment, synthesis, and sharing. Through deep observation and research, she translates her social, spiritual, and physical environments into art objects, community collaborations, and sharing.
As a mystic and a naturalist, reverence and mindfulness are guiding principles in creative production. Her projects incorporate found objects, creative reuse of existing materials, and respectful use of natural resources. Each material carries its own story, adding layers of meaning to her work.
Karrie brings people together through her work as a community organizer and a cultural advocate. She teaches classes and workshops, shares multimedia research presentations, facilitates group meetings, and offers creative mentorship to community members.
McCook Community Mural artists
Our Mission
Kent County is one of the most severely underserved communities in Tennessee. To combat this adversity, Project Sprout seeks to nourish our neighbors at the most fundamental level with healthy food options and a strong support network. All members get a portion of each harvest and surpluses are donated to low-income families whose work schedules prevent them from volunteering.
60%
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30%
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10%
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With ten gardens and counting, Project Sprout has seen a significant improvement in mental and physical health for all participating community members. Other than lowering obesity, blood pressure, and depression rates, the crime rate has also fallen. Our children are doing better in school, reporting higher grades and aspirations, and better job prospects.
Reach Out
If you are interested in commissioning artwork, contracting me for a presentation or workshop, or want to explore creative collaboration, feel free to contact me.