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, creative leadership, and collaborations. 

 At the core of my artistic practice are three guiding principles:

connection, creativity, and community.

Connection: 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 within it. 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: 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. 

Karrie is passionate about cultivating connection and creativity in communities. In 2022 she led an initiative to create NE-1 Creative Commons, a safe space where creatives could come together to dream and create. She was an assistant artist on McCook’s first community mural in 2022-2023. In 2023, she became involved in the development and organization of the newly formed McCook Creative District, and continues to be involved in the activation of the multifaceted vision of the district.

She is active in advocacy and networking for local artists, and is involved in projects such as coordinating arts activities for McCook community events.

She is a 2023-2025 Rural Regenerator Fellow through Springboard for the Arts, working on collaborative projects with cohorts, and as a story circle leader at the 2024 Rural Futures Summit.

WORKSHOPS & CLASSES

• Painting workshops

• Color theory workshops

• Painting parties - parties at pubs, clubs or home. Public and private parties. Prepare to have fun!

• Nature journaling workshops - your site or mine

Plus… many more! Contact me for more information.

PUBLIC SPEAKING & GROUP FACILITATION

From formal presentations to story circle facilitation, community forums and events, collaborative public art projects and more.

Current presentation available:

“The Artist and the Algorithm” An immersive and thought provoking presentation and discussion about AI and creatives.