Holly Smith holds a BA in Applied Art/Advertising Design from Iowa State University and a Master of Interdisciplinary Studies in Painting, Printmaking and Craft and Material Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University. She paints, prints and stitches on textiles and papers in her mixed media work, which she exhibits regionally. Her large scale commissioned textile art pieces are held and displayed by St. Mary’s Hospital and Third Church in Richmond, Virginia. Holly taught art to the youngest students at Collegiate School in Richmond for 24 years, and finds lasting inspiration in their creative risk-taking and inventive approaches to self-expression. 

Artist Statement

My work springs from the intentional act of noticing the lush colors and breathtaking design of the natural world. I try not to take for granted familiar surroundings, but watch for surprising growth, unusual texture or beautiful decay. This reverence for nature dovetails with my intention to conserve resources and shift the balance in my life from consuming to creating, reusing materials whenever possible. I find the act of making regenerative, and sharing that experience with others highlights the joy and power of collaboration. Art connects me to the earth, to others and to societal concerns.