Claire Kelly (American)

Claire Kelly is a distinguished glass artist renowned for her vibrant and intricate sculptures that explore the profound connections between humans, animals, and the environment. Born in 1974, Kelly graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Alfred University in 1996. Her early career was marked by collaborations with various glass artists, during which she honed her skills in color and pattern creation within blown glass. 

Kelly’s artistic journey led her to work alongside acclaimed glass artist Toots Zynsky in Providence, Rhode Island, beginning in 2008. This experience significantly influenced her approach to glass art, allowing her to refine her techniques and develop a unique artistic voice. 

Her sculptures are characterized by the integration of traditional Venetian glassblowing methods with contemporary cold-working processes. She employs techniques such as cane and murrini to create intricate patterns and bold color combinations. Kelly draws inspiration from mid-century Venetian masters like Napoleone Martinuzzi and Carlo Scarpa, as well as contemporary artists such as Dick Marquis and Toots Zynsky.

The central theme of Kelly’s work revolves around the psychological and physical relationships humans have with animals and their larger connection to our environment. Her sculptures depict fantastical microcosms that bring awareness to their decorative appeal while telling stories about fragility and conservation. By presenting these intimate kingdoms, Kelly invites viewers to reflect on environmental responsibility and the beauty of our place in the vastness of time.

Throughout her career, Kelly has participated in numerous residencies and teaching engagements. She has been an instructor at esteemed institutions such as Penland School of Crafts, Pilchuck Glass School, the Pittsburgh Glass Center, The Studio at the Corning Museum of Glass, Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, and the Centro Fundacion del Vidrio in Spain. Her residencies include the EnergyXchange fellowship in Burnsville, North Carolina, and artist-in-residence positions at the Pittsburgh Glass Center and the Studio of the Corning Museum of Glass, where she experimented with specialty glass from Effetre, a company based in Murano, Italy.

Kelly’s work has been exhibited internationally and is held in various prestigious collections. Her sculptures have been featured in exhibitions at galleries such as the Sandra Ainsley Gallery and the Corning Museum of Glass. Her pieces are also available through the Corning Museum of Glass’s shop, reflecting her prominence in the contemporary glass art scene.

Are You Looking to Sell Art by Claire Kelly?

Collectors and art enthusiasts recognize the unique value and appeal of Claire Kelly’s art. Her distinctive style and the intricate craftsmanship of her pieces make them highly sought after in the art market. For those considering selling Claire Kelly art, obtaining a professional appraisal is a crucial first step. This process provides an accurate assessment of the artwork’s current market value, considering factors such as the piece’s condition, provenance, and demand.​

Selling Claire Kelly art at auction is often the most effective method to achieve maximum value. Auctions provide a competitive platform where collectors and enthusiasts can bid on desired pieces, often driving prices higher than private sales. The transparent nature of auctions also ensures that sellers receive fair market value for their artworks.

How to Maximize the Value of Your Claire Kelly Art

Lion & Unicorn is a full-service auction house located in South Florida, specializing in art, antiques, and collectibles. With over 30 years of experience, Lion & Unicorn offers certified appraisal and valuation services, ensuring that your Claire Kelly art is accurately assessed. Their nationwide service includes pickup, packing, and transport, making the selling process seamless and efficient. With offices in Palm Beach, Orlando, Miami, and Naples, and a main gallery and production studio in Hollywood, FL, Lion & Unicorn is well-equipped to handle the sale of your art.

Choosing to sell Claire Kelly art through Lion & Unicorn not only connects your piece with a broad audience of potential buyers but also ensures that the sale is managed by professionals with extensive knowledge of the art market. Their expertise and commitment to achieving the best results for their clients make them an ideal partner in the auction process.​

Claire Kelly’s art holds significant value in the contemporary art market, and selling her pieces at auction through reputable houses like Lion & Unicorn can maximize returns for collectors. By obtaining a professional appraisal and leveraging the competitive nature of auctions, sellers can ensure that their Claire Kelly art receives the attention and value it deserves.