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

What My Collectors Say

Marianne Glaser

"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!!!"

Andy McNeill

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

Carol Breeding 

Former Exc. Dir. Atlanta Falcons Youth Foundation 

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

Let's Work Together

Commission

Commission

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!

License

License

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!

Inquiries

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. Reach out, let's start a conversation!

Let's Get Social!

Instagram

Day 13 - The View Outside Your Nearest Window

The sky is blue and the snow is melting. The snow is only 2 days old and it still appears like a white carpet covering the ground. 

 #abstractart #blackartist #28DayCreativeChallenge #createwithkristye #ArtJournal
Day 12 - The First Thing You See in the Morning

I am so blessed to have married my best friend. Seeing him first thing each morning is the best start to my day.

#createwithkristye #abstractart #blackartist #28DayCreativeChallenge #beatcreativeblock #gouache #quicksketch
Day 12 - The First Thing You See in the Morning

☀️ Every morning, before the sun fully rises, I see my husband. Handsome, kind, and already bright-eyed while I’m still waking up. How does he do it? 😂

He greets the day with warmth. His smile? My favorite sunrise. His kindness? The best way to start any day. Forever grateful for the man who makes even my groggy mornings feel like a blessing. ❤️✨

#MyMorningLight #GratefulHeart #LoveInTheLittleThings #28DayCreativeChallenge #createwithkristye #memories #artinspiration
Day 11 - The Way Rain, Sun, or Wind Make You Feel

The Sun’s Embrace ☀️✨

There’s something about the sun—its golden vibrancy, the way it bathes everything in warmth, igniting both peace and energy at once. It’s a rhythm, a pulse, a force that fuels creativity and breathes life into my work. Each brushstroke carries that same radiance, capturing light, movement, and the deep serenity that only the sun can provide.

For collectors who seek art that awakens the senses—pieces that feel alive, like a moment suspended in warmth—this is for you. 🌞🔥 Message me if you are interested in the painting.

Explore the energy. Feel the light. Own the moment.

 #28DayCreativeChallenge #createwithkristye #PaletteKnifePainting #AbstractArt #CollectorsCircle #VibrantEnergy #SunlitCanvas #KristyeDudleyArt #blackartists
Day 11 - The Way Rain, Sun, or Wind Makes You Feel

Today, Northern Virginia is expecting snow again. The last few piles of snow were just about to melt. The sky is gray, and snow clouds are rolling in. I miss the sun's feel on my face. It makes me lower my shoulders, relax my jaws, and exhale as I soak in the rays. 

#sunshine #sunrays☀️ #abstractart #blackartist #28DayCreativeChallenge #createwithkristye #beatcreativeblock #BlackHistoryMonth
Day 10- The Texture Of an Object You Often Use

I chose paper. Crumpling a sheet and applying it to wet paint revealed unexpected textures. While watercolor paper feels bumpy and absorbent. Smooth drawing paper lets my pencil glide, and sturdy canvas paper holds thick paint from a palette knife. Each surface has its own character, shaping how I create.

#createwithkristye #28daycreativechallenge #abstractart #blackartist #beatcreativeblock #BlackHistoryMonth #ArtInspiration #ArtJournal