Kelli Stretesky’s paintings, whatever their dimension, are a palpable and enchanting presence. I am invariably pulled in by their intriguing texture–rich with an impasto style that coheres gracefully within abstract or whimsical imagery. While radiating one or two dominant colors at first glance, often, upon finer inspection, Kelli’s canvases showcase controlled explorations of color that provide a complex visual reward. I am the happy owner of Kelli’s work titled “Grid Transition” — displayed prominently in my living room. This piece (featuring the base gridline design characteristic of her “Color Block” series) represents Kelli’s acclimation to Manhattan’s geometrical street grid from the Midwest’s wide open expanses. As I too went through a process of adjusting to New York City, this work resonates deeply with me. Kelli’s pure yearning to create meaningful visual messages permeates her art, and animates her personality. -Max Shterngel New York, New York