About
An initial career in fashion photography soon evolved. Inspired by the models she photographed Thompson began to capture her subjects as ephemeral illustrations that were published by major publications leading to a loyal following of fans. As her work became in demand she found herself working full-time as a freelance artist, invited as a keynote speaker at popular creative events and collaborating with fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands. As her popularity grew so did her practice finding Thompson today in demand for not only her illustration, but her broad creative abilities. She is one to watch and constantly evolving.
In 2018 Thompson founded Maker’s Mrkt an online platform that encourages people to shop small and support independent Makers and designers.
Thompson is a popular keynote speaker and is well practiced in the art of creative thinking. Clients continue to place much value on the Thompson brand which has lead to ambassadorship roles for high profile companies such as Nintendo. This personal brand value has translated in to work as a creative consultant for businesses and individuals who admire Thompson's direction, connections to creative community, taste and ability to appeal to a broad audience. She is intelligent, dedicated, multifaceted and full of ideas.
About Kelly and Work
Creative Direction and Guidance - If you are seeking outside creative guidance Kelly is an invaluable consultant when developing projects. Having worked from conception to completion for numerous corporate clients across diverse fields Kelly offers insight, opinion and direction.
Public Speaking & Event Hosting - A confident and well practiced keynote speaker with extensive experience speaking to large and intimate audiences. Amongst the things Kelly has spoken about are her own practice, creative community and roles of women in creative industry. Kelly has hosted events on behalf of clients and hosted PR events for brands. She is a positive and professional speaker and teacher.
Brand Ambassador - An enthusiastic and positive brand ambassador Kelly remains an appealing choice for brands wishing to connect with a creative audience.
Illustration & Design - Kelly is an accomplished designer and is available for commissions.
Publications and Awards
2019 - What Would She Do, Carlton Books
2018 - Stand Up Stand Out, Carlton Books
2014 - What I Love About Movies
2014 - Pride in Print Gold Award Winner
2014 - Curvy Book Feature Artist
2013 - Pride in Print Gold Award Winner
2013 - The Purple Book, Lawrence King Press
2013 - Darkness of Noon, Pearce Press
2011 - Hand Made Illustration, Monsa Publications
2010 - Trendy Fashion Illustrators, Monsa Publications
2010 - This is Fashion Illustration, Monsa Publications
2010 - The Beautiful, Gestalten Books
2010 - Curvy Book
2009 - Wooden Toy Quarterly, Handmade Edition
2009 - Curvy Book feature artist
2008 - Curvy Book
2007 - Curvy Book
Exhibitions
Solo
2011 - National Grid Gallery, Pyjama Party - Sydney
2010 - Superette Store, Chick Habit - Auckland
2009 - Gorker Gallery, Bookworms Never go to Bed Alone - Melbourne
2008 - Pixel Ink Gallery NZ, Recent Works - Wellington
2007 - Good as Gold Store, Women of my Dreams - Wellington
Group
2016 - Les Petit Fours - Friends of Leon Gallery
2014 - Curvy Exhibition - Semi Permanent - Sydney
2013 - Darkness of Noon The Department Store -Auckland
2013 - Darkness of Noon Edmund Pearce Gallery - Melbourne
2012 - Curvy Book launch exhibition - Wellington
2012 - Kathryn Wilson Art of Shoes,The Northern Club - Auckland
2010 - 22,National Grid Gallery - Sydney
2010 - Article 19, Amnesty International- Auckland
2010 - Forty Thieves, Gorker Gallery - Melbourne
2009 - Paint Your Heart Out, ruby Boutique - Auckland
2009 - Love Hurts, Tattooed Heart Gallery - Auckland
2009 - A Tale of Two Kellys, Per Square Metre Gallery - Melbourne
2009 - Handdrawn, Wooden Toy Magazine, Gorker Gallery - Melbourne
2009 - Curvy Book exhibition - Sydney
2009 - Frankie Magazine exhibition - Brisbane
2008 - Fashion Week Gallery - Auckland
2008 - Manky Chops Gallery - Wellington
Education
Bachelor of Design (Hons) - Massey University Wellington
Introductory Jewellery accredited course - Melbourne Polytechnic