My formal art education began at the University of Nebraska and took me to observe art in over 27 countries of Europe, then on to attend the Accedemia de Riaci in Florence, Italy. I have worn many hats for the arts as an educator, owner and director of Kellie Rae Theiss (Red House) Gallery for nine years. It is very important to note that I have also been a student of the community of artists here and abroad. Libraries of information have come from the extraordinary artists and students that I have been privileged to work with and for over the past 20 years here in Minnesota.

Above anything else I am here as an artist for nature. For 27 years my paintings have been about expressing a reverence for the natural object or creature. Rendering with academic precision, I attempt to relate to the viewer with a touch of surrealism how beautiful, fragile and brief are the creatures and their physical world. I also intend parallels to be pondered regarding our existence with theirs. Is there is a physical connection to the spiritual realm? Are we responsible to observe, appreciate and protect? I hope that my work will reflect these questions, creating a stronger connection to nature and a sense for protecting it.

About six months out of the year I am at my home and studio in northern Minnesota. This magical place provides the backdrop for my inspiration. It takes my breath away to come upon nature, to watch great blue herons passing overhead or have the company of a northern leopard frog in my hand. It is a thrill to observe creatures that are so very different than ourselves. It is my passion as an artist to capture the mystery and pride in painted portraits of nature. The subjects are frogs, insects, crayfish, tadpoles, turtles, fish, birds and butterflies. I do mean that I love it all - their patterns, color and the symmetry. But what is more - is that in their strangeness they are remarkably romantic. They come in many shapes and expression, some divine, some devilish but they are all creations of absolute poetry.