Hey y’all! I’m Kelsey Mumford, a Los Angeles–based contemporary and surrealist artist. My work explores the beauty and depth of Blackness through monochrome palettes, color blocking, contrast, juxtaposition, and metaphorical narratives. I primarily paint in acrylic, with a focus on portraiture.

Living in Los Angeles continually fuels my practice—the tones, textures, and layers of Black culture move through everything I create. From the trends we pioneer, to the ways we love and show up for one another, to our accountability, our relationship with mental health, and even our connection to nature, I aim for the viewer’s mind to wander through each story embedded in my work. I strive for an aesthetic that resonates across diverse audiences while remaining deeply rooted in cultural truth.

When creating, I lean into the psychology of the “first look”—how certain shapes and colors can instantly stir emotion. Through that interplay, I hope to open space for reflection, recognition, and connection.