Kelson Thorne

Kelson Thorne is an artist from Petersburg, West Virginia, who earned a BFA in Painting from West Virginia University in 2019. His work primarily focuses on large-scale murals and public art installations that celebrate the Appalachian communities, businesses, and cultures he grew up around.

Alongside his public work, Kelson creates smaller, more personal paintings that allow him to reflect on his experiences and emotions. These works often differ greatly from his murals, with styles that continuously evolve.

Working across both public and personal art has given Kelson two distinct perspectives on the role of art. He sees art as a way to bring people together and represent community, while also using it as a means of exploring individuality and personal expression. Ultimately, his work is shaped by the lens through which he views the world.