From mixing chemicals to mixing paint

Kelly LaCava is a self taught artist and started painting as a means of stress relief when she realized a career as a chemist wasn’t for her. Kelly had no idea at the time that art would become her profession- she has now been a live teaching artist for 12 years. 

Kelly is most known for her business ‘Wild & Wonderful Paint Parties’ which allows her to teach beginners painting classes all over the state. She believes art is for everyone and finds joy witnessing others build confidence as they discover the therapeutic benefits of painting. 

In her personal work, Kelly enjoys painting vibrant & abstract acrylic landscapes. She is inspired by nature and tries to replicate the bright and bold colors she sees outside. Kelly's work has been shown in galleries throughout West Virginia such as Love Hope Arts in Fayetteville and Bloomfield Richwood. She has live painted at Mountain Music Festival and Love Hope Art's fundraiser The Showdown, and sells her work every year on Bridge Day. Kelly loves living in the New River Gorge region and taking in the beauty constantly surrounding her. When she's not creating art she enjoys rock climbing, running, river surfing and hanging out with her husband Daniel and two kids Henry and Lucy.