About
I suppose I am me, but I’ve been shaped by everything I’ve done and seen. One of the biggest things I’ve developed is an ability to notice the beauty and complexity in all kinds of moments. From wildflowers on rainy days to a drunk friend asleep on the couch, each scene carries its own kind of intrigue — a visual story unfolding right in front of me. My art tends to grow out of those emotional impressions.
A lot of my work centers on experimentation. I’m always searching for new ways to speak visually, always trying to figure out how to articulate a feeling or a message — whether it’s something as simple as “you’re not alone” or something more socially driven.
During my experimental process, I’m usually trying to weave everything I’ve learned into something cohesive. I love learning new techniques; it’s honestly my favorite part of making art. And sometimes, while I’m exploring a new process, something more lighthearted emerges. Variety keeps me in love with what I do, and I’m always looking for the next thing that inspires to push even further.
Who am I?
Shelby Fernatt is a multidisciplinary artist who uses their creative practice as a universal language to explore complex themes such as mental health, identity, and societal commentary. Through various mediums, Fernatt crafts visually and emotionally compelling works that invite viewers into layered conversations about personal and collective experience. Their art serves as both an expressive outlet and a bridge for understanding, transforming abstract ideas into tangible visual narratives.
From an early age, Fernatt found solace in the act of creation, recognizing it as a powerful means of self-expression and agency. As a child, art became more than a passion—it was a way to establish control in moments where circumstances felt uncertain. This deep-rooted connection to art shaped their approach, allowing them to translate emotions, memories, and reflections into a distinct visual language. Over the years, their work has evolved into a thoughtful exploration of human complexity, weaving together raw emotion with intentional composition.
Influenced by personal experiences and broader cultural dialogues, Fernatt's artistic vision continues to expand, challenging perspectives and inviting engagement. Whether through painting, sculpture, digital media, or mixed techniques, their work embodies a balance between introspection and outreach—a conversation between artist and audience. Fernatt strives to create pieces that not only resonate aesthetically but also provoke thought, spark dialogue, and encourage deeper reflection on themes that touch all aspects of life.