Person with curly hair wearing glasses and a green apron taking a selfie in a mirror, visible smartphone in green case.

Shelby Kittinger

Born in Buffalo, NY, I earned my Bachelor's degree in Sculpture with a minor in Art History from SUNY Fredonia. Since graduation, I have embarked on a journey of exploration and community engagement.

Since my son was a year old while finishing my degree, I knew that in my chest, I imagined an art career for myself. At that time, I did not know which direction my artwork would lead, but knew when I created, my feelings directed my artworks. After three years of experimentation from fine line drawing to printmaking, putting a paint brush to canvas again would be the beginning. Painting allowed my conceptual imagination to flourish.

Inspired by the conceptual symbolism of surrealism, literature, empathy, and sociopolitical events, I have created multimedia paintings that break the canvas. In these artworks, I bring the viewer into contemplation of our turbulent world and the actions we can take to achieve a better one.

Currently, I channel my passion for art and its transformative power as a traveling artist, bringing the joy of painting and the richness of art history to retirement homes. My classes serve as a source of inspiration and connection for senior citizens, fostering an environment where creativity knows no age boundaries.

My hope is to create interactive art experiences and dedicated to making art accessible and impactful for audiences of all ages.

SOLO EXHIBITIONS

"My Subconscious Series” - Pushy Art Gallery, Buffalo, NY, February 2023

"Playful Melancholy” - Fitz Books and Waffles Bookstore and Art Gallery, Buffalo, NY, September 2023

GROUP EXHIBITIONS AND MARKETS

Locust Street Art Market - Locust Street Art Market, Buffalo, NY, December 2023

BICA (Buffalo Institute of Contemporary Art) 2nd Annual Art Market - BICA, Buffalo, NY, December 2023

Hallwalls Mid Winters Draw - February 2024 - Exhibiting Artist

Hallwalls Member Show July- August 2024 - Exhibiting Artist

ROCO (Rochester Contemporary Art Center) 6x6 Show April 2024 - Exhibiting Artist

Old First Ward Art Festival 2024 - Exhibiting Artist, Self Reflection Zine workshop

Locust Street Art Drawing Rally 2024 - Exhibiting Artist

Hilites Salon and Art Gallery Fall Show November 2024 - Exhibiting Artist

Allen Street Art Gallery, Pieces of Us Show-December 2024- Exhibiting Artist

Hallwalls Mid Winters Draw-February 2025- Exhibiting Artist

Hunt Art Gallery Residency Show - October, 2025 - Exhibiting Artist

PUBLICATIONS

“Sam and the Pool” Author; Aaron Measer, 2022

“Goat Math” Author; Alice Clarkson, 2023

Illustration of a green sword with red drop on pink background