Kristye-Dudley-Contemporary-Artist-Headshot

Welcome to my studio.

I am Kristye, a contemporary abstract painter, designer, writer, illustrator, and teacher living in Northern Virginia.

I see the figure as a shell for the spirit. I enjoy using impressionistic strokes, featureless faces, and expressive forms to exhibit the universal emotions we all share. I explore nature, life, and the beauty of emotional self-reflection in the world around us. I hope that my work will touch and inspire you.

Learn more about me
  • "I worked with Kristye on a surprise commission piece for my husband on Father's Day. I wish I had videotaped his reaction, because it spoke volume of her talent. It now hangs proudly in our home. Thank you Kristye!!!"


    Marianne Glaser

  • “Kristye created a painting that is a treasured moment caught in time. We could not be happier with the result. Thank you Kristye!”

    Andy McNeill

  • "Kristye, "In the Huddle", was absolutely beautiful. I want to thank you for sharing your extraordinary talent with us."

    Carol Breeding
    Former Executive Director
    Atlanta Falcons Youth Foundation

1 of 3
  • WatercolorCommission_KristyeDudley

    Commission A Project

    Envisioning a special memory as a timeless artwork? Decide on your image, pick between watercolor or acrylic, and set the size. Let's co-create a masterpiece that resonates with your heart. Tap into your artistic side and connect with me – let's make art together!

  • HolidayCard_KristyeDudley

    License Artwork

    My portfolio of watercolor patterns, handwritten type, and acrylic paintings are ready to be reproduced for surface design. Interested in exploring more of my artwork or seeking custom artwork? Reach out to me; I'd be thrilled to collaborate with you!

  • VeniceWatercolorClass_KristyeDudley

    General Inquiries

    Whether you're a fellow artist eager to discuss techniques, a gallery considering an exhibition, an art representative, or a collector on the hunt for a new artist, I'd love to hear from you. Click the button below to reach out. Let's start a conversation!

Instagram

Well somehow it became “Novecember”! That weird time before Thanksgiving, but before Christmas where you done know exactly what’s going on. 😂 
.
I set goals for this year and now I feel like the finish line is around the corner. I’m excited to share new originals and gift ideas.
.
I’ve created a line of D-9 inspired gifts, abstract home goods, and handmade ornaments.
.
I will also be sharing a new collection of original paintings. 🖼️
.
#asmr #paintingart #smallbusinessowner #holidayseason #novecember
Happy Veterans Day to my husband and all those who serve. 💕
#happyveteransday #militaryspouse #militarylife
If you haven’t voted your voice matters! I’d love for you to vote for the candidate I believe will do what’s best for our country, but that’s not how this works. As a military family, we are able to vote absentee. I voted in early October.
So agree or disagree, but VOTE!🗳️ ✅
.
#vote #womensrights #lovethyneighbor #strolltothepolls 🩷💚
Being an artist is a unique journey often misunderstood by others. Balancing roles as a painter, surface designer, and business owner, I’ve found that each requires its own mindset, and switching between them can sometimes break my creative flow. Here are my top tips to reignite that spark:
.
🎨 1.	Set the Studio Vibe – For me, creativity starts with the environment. I like to declutter, organize my art supplies, and look for colors or tools I haven’t used in a while. Switching mediums also helps. If I’ve been working in watercolor, I might shift to acrylic on canvas or try printmaking. The change brings fresh energy and new perspectives to my work.
.
🍁 2.	Take a Nature Break – Sometimes, stepping outside the studio can be the best way to refresh. I head outdoors, observing the shapes, textures, and colors in nature. This often brings unexpected inspiration that I can incorporate back into my designs and paintings.
.
💃🏾3.	Experiment with Music and Movement – I’ll play music that energizes or soothes, depending on what I’m aiming for in my work. Sometimes, even a few minutes of dance or light exercise gets my mind and body aligned and ready to dive back into creating.
.
📝4. Write it down - I have a collection of journals, some I’ve had since college. Writing down my current emotions, prayers, struggles, and dreams is so grounding. Looking back at experiences I’ve journaled about in the past, reminds me of how far I’ve come. Both of these are a constant well of personal inspiration that fuels my work.
.
Creativity isn’t just about making art; it’s about finding moments that reawaken your passion and purpose in the studio. What’s your go-to technique for getting inspired?
.
#CreativeProcess #Inspiration #ArtCollector #ArtCommunity #CreativityBoost #ArtisticJourney #FindingInspiration #ArtLife
Hello Gorgeous! That’s what one of my favorite mugs says (faintly). I’m sipping on Chai Tea while editing art. 🎁
.
But work today was slow, my sweet little dude was at home today recovering from a slight concussion. He’s fine, but yesterday the race car party turned into bumper cars and he got BUMPED! 💥 🤕
.
But he’s already trying to negotiate how to go outside and play. I’m so grateful that he’s alright.
.
So for now, I’ll reheat my tea and squeeze in a little more work before I spend the afternoon with my “sonshine”.
.
#boymom #workingmom #artistlife #workfromhomemom
🎨 Just like that, another tiger art print found a home. 🐯
.
No surprise—this piece went to a fellow Clemson Tiger Alum. Fun Fact: Did you know I was a Clemson Cheerleader and Homecoming Queen? 🐅 It’s true!
.
But here’s the good news: you can have a print too. Don’t keep this to yourself. Share it with other Clemson fans too. Go Tigers!

📩 Need more details? DM me or visit the links in my bio.

—
#TigerArtPrint #ExclusiveArtPrints #BoldArtForSale #CollectorArt #TigerPrints #EyeOfTheTiger #ClemsonUniversity #clemsonfb #IPTAY #ClemsonAlumni #clemsoncbac