About So Artsy
So Artsy is a one woman studio creating high quality and beautiful art and décor. The owner and artist, Kelly Eyamie-Shorey (Kel), is a lifelong multimedia artist who creates art with passion, creativity, and positivity. Coupled with over 15 years in the not-for-profit, charitable sector, she truly believes that art is a service that she is meant to share with the world through its creation and teaching.
How So Artsy began
So Artsy came to life as a side hustle to pursue my passion for art. I created art in the evenings – after my work day was done and my two kiddos were in bed.
ALL THAT CHANGED WHEN COVID HIT IN 2020.
During this time I was already going through some pretty significant life changes (for the better). I worked tirelessly on self-love, healing, and defining my purpose. When COVID hit, I was already in a state of transformation.
I realized that I should be doing exactly what I love and feel passionate about. I am my best version of myself when I am covered in paint and sawdust — creating art for other people. I quit my really amazing job that I loved to pursue my passion. I know I am meant to be on this earth to share my creativity and art. Plus, I love the balance I have found between family life and work as an artist and business owner.
ABOUT KELLY (KEL) EYAMIE-SHOREY
Owner, Artist, Wood Worker and Art Instructor
For as long as I can remember, I have loved art and creating. I grew up with a graphic designer dad and my mom who worked at the Nepean Visual Arts Centre (NVAC) and the Nepean Creative Arts Centre. She is a pretty incredible artist herself.
Once I was old enough, I also worked at the NVAC in many capacities (pottery technician, art instructor, customer service rep). I still teach art classes there to this day! I spent every summer, march break, and weekend surrounded by art, artists, and people who loved art. I was that kid who spent more time in the art room in high school, than socializing at lunch – though I did like that too!
After high school, I received a Bachelor of Fine Arts Honours, from Queen’s University (Cha Gheill!). That’s right, I’m putting this ‘art’ degree to use for all those nay-sayers back in the day! All of my electives were in Commerce, so I think I always knew that I would build my own business.
After university, I backpacked through Europe visiting all the art galleries and museums filled with all the art I studied in school. After my return, I didn’t know what to do, so I decided to move to Seoul, South Korea to teach English… alone. I ended up meeting some really incredible women. We back packed through South East Asia for a couple months. I think I scared my mom every single day. That is, until I finally made my way home after getting very sick in Thailand.
WORK LIFE
Upon my return, I went back to school for Museum Studies. I wanted to work in an art gallery, so I thought this was a great path to follow. This is where I discovered my love of museums. As a result, I spent my career working in museums and tourism from 2006 until 2021. In 2012, I found my “home” at the Diefenbunker Museum as part of the senior management team overseeing marketing and I served as the deputy director of the museum.
In 2018, I joined the Board of Directors of Ottawa Tourism. I LOVE Ottawa – its people, its rich history, and its hidden gems. It’s with very mixed emotions that I left our lively tourism industry and friends. I know, in my heart, this is the right path to follow.
FAMILY AND LIFE
In April of 2007, I had a first date with the man, Jay, who would become my hubby and life partner. October 2021 marked our 10th wedding anniversary and so does January 2022. Yes! We had two weddings – one here in Ottawa and one on the beach in Jamaica. Now, we have two wacky and loving kids, Tyler (named after my brother) and Rylie.
I am also an avid runner, recovering from a horrible back injury. As a result, I’m redefining what running means to me. And I have been running with my dog, Nala, since March of 2021. I’m also part of an incredible dragon boat team (both on the water and ice!).
There are lots more life stories in between but I don’t think you want to be reading a novel so that brings us to today…
A LIFE FILLED WITH GRATITUDE
As I sit here writing this (2021), I have never been more excited, nervous, and happy for this new chapter in my life.
I’m so grateful to all of those who provided me with such a solid foundation: my high school art teachers, the NVAC staff and instructors, my BFF Kimmy, and of course, my mom (still my number one cheerleader to this day) and my brother who has always been my hero.
I am also one of the luckiest women in the world to have a husband who is beyond supportive. He listens to my self-ramblings (now I get to call them staff meetings lol) and encourages me to follow my dreams. Together, we are building an amazing life, with two super awesome kiddos and a fur baby. When my son was 7 years old, he said, “Momma, you made your own job! That’s amazing!!! And you made your job making art for other people! Wow! I’m so proud of you!”
My family and friends have always shared their unwavering support and love. I love you all.
I think about all of you, all the time. Thank you. Thank you! Thank you!
Did I mention that I love people!? I would love to connect with you to share the joy of art!!! You can email me at [email protected]