Cawdrey Gallery to feature the work of Helena artist Kallie Audet

Cawdrey Gallery will exhibit new oil paintings by Helena artist Kallie Audet throughout May with an opening reception planned during the first Whitefish Gallery Nights Art Walk of the year.

Audet uses large sweeping brush strokes to capture Montana’s wildlife and landscapes to create expressive oil paintings. Her limited color palette of contrasting warm grays and cool blues are inspired by the scenery around her Helena home.

Born and raised in north-central Montana, Audet loved to draw and paint as a child and decided at an early age she would pursue a career in art. Although she is mostly self-taught, Audet earned an art degree from Montana State University in Bozeman. After years in the education field, she is focused on creating fine art. Audet began as a watercolor painter before focusing on oils for more texture and layering of color. 

Audet explains her wildlife paintings as a shared encounter between the subject and the viewer. “I intentionally use an ‘up close and personal’ view of the animal instead of the more traditional perspective where the animal is viewed from afar. Special attention is given to the eyes and the perceived expression of the subject. I would like the viewer to get a sense of the subject’s character and emotional being,” she said.

While Audet loves painting wildlife, she has started a new series of paintings inspired by Montana homesteads. Interesting buildings, barns, and homes can be seen across Montana surrounded by vast expanses of land. 

“I am always curious about the history of the place and the families who have lived and worked there,” she said.

The public will be able to meet Audet and view her work at the reception, which will be held at the gallery from 5 to 8 p.m. May 2. Light refreshments will be served.

    "Sanctuary," by Kallie Audet, oil on canvas. (Photo provided)
  

    "Onward," by Kallie Audet, oil on canvas. (Photo provided)
  

    "Charged," by Kallie Audet, oil on canvas. (Photo provided)