iN PHOTOS: Kamloops crafter makes whimsical works of art out of dead insects
A crafter in Kamloops is bringing whimsy, nature and art together in her unique pieces using dead bugs, flowers and mushrooms.
Kelsi Arvay started showing and selling her art at local markets and online through her page Eternal Afterlife Creations earlier this year and is already working on commissioned pieces.
“When people see my art I always get so many compliments on how beautiful it is and always lots of questions," she said. "It was really nerve racking getting myself out there and showing the world my art but I'm grateful l did, I was able to share some of my pieces with people which is so special to me.”
Arvay’s art style began five years ago when she went to a butterfly pinning workshop. She has since added other bugs and elements she collects on nature walks like sticks, plants and mushrooms. Every design is different and put into a variety of frames to make original two and three-dimensional works.
“I love creating these pieces, they’re always unique and different than the last one before it, but supergluing a wing onto a ladybug is not an easy task.”
Originally from 100 Mile House, Arvay has lived in Kamloops since 2006 and has always had a love for art as “it runs in the family.”
“Growing up I spent a lot of time with my grandma and we were always doing some sort of crafting and I absolutely loved it,” she said. “I’ve used dried flowers in art for years, my grandma would dry them between pages in a book. I’ve learned other ways to dry them that doesn’t flatten them.”
For Arvay, creating art out of nature is a way to bring joy to others — especially with personal commissioned pieces — but creating art out of natural elements also helps ease Arvay’s anxiety and stress.
“I’ve always found nature to be my happy place, somewhere I can go and just relax and enjoy myself. When life gets stressful I like to go for a walk to reset and relieve tension. When I do my art, it’s a great way to help with my anxiety and the one place I can get out of my head and focus on something other than the stresses in life.”
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Arvay plans to attend more vendor markets in the future.
“This is actually the longest hobby I've ever stuck to in my life so I am proud of myself for still doing it," she said. "I guess I have finally found my passion in life and being able to share it with people makes it feel more fulfilling and brings me a lot of happiness.”
Go here to view or purchase Arvay’s work at Eternal Afterlife Creations.
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