A conversation with bykellymcd

Kelly McDermott (b. 1989) is a multidisciplinary artist whose work aims to revive the Old West with a pop of nostalgia. Her earlier artistic endeavors often plunged into the realm of abstract portraiture, skillfully navigating the intricate nuances of the human condition. McDermott's work is all about pushing boundaries and exploring new frontiers. Whether wielding oils or acrylics on canvas, or harnessing the potential of digital tools, McDermott consistently aspires to manifest creations that resonate with her on a profound level, distilled from the crucible of personal experiences.

The Absurdity of Now: A Critique of Hyperreality and Fragmented Identity in Kelly McDermott’s Multidisciplinary Art

In The Absurdity of Now, Kelly McDermott presents a profound and multifaceted inquiry into the ironies and paradoxes of contemporary existence. Through a deliberately eclectic and bold aesthetic, McDermott’s work juxtaposes vibrant colors, symbolic imagery, and a nostalgic nod to American iconography to interrogate the commodification of identity, the digital fragmentation of self, and the erosion of authenticity. This collection resonates deeply with art historical movements that have likewise sought to expose the ambiguities and deceptions embedded in societal values, rendering McDermott’s approach both timely and steeped in a critical lineage. By drawing upon the visual languages of Surrealism, Pop Art, Social Realism, and New Media Art, McDermott positions her critique within a broader historical discourse that questions the structures of perception, consumption, and selfhood in modern society.