Originally from Plymouth, Minnesota, I now live near Seattle, Washington, with my husband Jon, son Finn, and daughter Pippin.

I am an artist of many mediums. I have always enjoyed drawing, but my professional career started in advertising as a print designer, with a BFA in graphic design from Montana State University. After moving to Seattle in 2011, I had the opportunity to design and art direct books for indie publisher Dock Street Press, all while teaching and choreographing dance in the greater Seattle area—including at Backstage Dance Studio, where I still teach. I find that every creative avenue informs the next, and I enjoy balancing traditional art with the art of movement and writing. Now a mother of two, I spend as much time as I can find drawing, writing, and dancing.

My three book series for Delta Dental of Washington, The Clean Teeth Club (2020), The Search for the World’s Greatest Smile (2021), and Smile Scouts (2023), has been donated to classrooms and libraries around the state of Washington to educate and excite kids about taking care of their teeth. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the Delta Dental team on such a great cause.

I am a member of SCBWI and was the featured illustrator for November 2024. Watch the video below to learn more about me.

Visit kellybahrfineart.com to view Kelly’s fine artwork.

For all inquiries, please contact me at info@kellyraebahr.com.