About

Artist Statement

My portraits investigate how clothing choice defines the relationship between our inner lives and our outward presentation. I paint in a representational manner, rendering the details of the clothing’s pattern and texture with as much attention as the subjects’ features.  I am interested in capturing not just a likeness, but a presence—a fleeting moment that depicts the tension and vulnerability of being looked at and being seen.

I begin each portrait with my own curation of the subject’s personal items.  I designate items to be painted – a dress, a hat, a certain accessory. The sitter chooses the rest.  I sometimes include an object or accessory that is unfamiliar to the sitter to see how it alters their personal presentation. 

The work explores the tension between how we are perceived and how we wish to be seen.  The subjects of my portraits often look directly at the viewer, creating an intimate, almost confrontational connection that presents a pared down and emotionally transparent portrayal, shaped through my perspective. 

This careful staging stems from a strong desire to cherish the person before me while acknowledging the poignant truth that we can never truly know another person.

Bio

Kelly Anona Kerrigan is a figurative painter based in Massachusetts.
Originally from New Hampshire, she received her BFA in painting from Boston University, and her MFA from the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Her work has been shown in various venues throughout New England, and was featured in the 2006 New American Paintings MFA edition.

Kerrigan has done costume work and scene painting in Boston area theaters and currently works as the Costume Shop and Children's Wardrobe Manager at Boston Ballet. She combines her interest in costume and clothing construction with her painting through use of pattern and depiction of garments and textiles. Her paintings investigate the intersection of costume and clothing and how these things communicate who we are and who we want to be. She has taught painting at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts.