From the sun-soaked shores of Southern California to the majestic waves of Oahu's North Shore, Kelly Silva has crafted a life that beautifully melds his passions for art and the ocean. Born into the vibrant hues and dynamic landscapes of Newport Beach, California, Kelly's artistic journey began at the tender age of seven. With the encouragement of his supportive mother and the infinite inspiration provided by the ocean's ever-changing canvas, Kelly's talent blossomed into a profound love for painting, especially the majestic waves he grew up admiring during school recesses.

Kelly is a self-trained artist with no formal training, making his art raw and authentic. He is not just an artist; he is a true son of the sea. His early years were spent mastering the waves at local surf spots, from 38th Street to the notorious Wedge, eventually leading him to the legendary surf breaks of Oahu. It's here, in this surfer's paradise, that Kelly has spent the past two decades honing his craft and becoming one with the island's spirit.

His art is a vibrant testament to his life’s adventures and his deep connection with the ocean. From large-scale murals that capture the awe-inspiring essence of pipeline waves to intimate paintings that reflect the subtle interplays of light and water, Kelly's works invite viewers to dive into his world. His most photographed mural, a true-to-size wave at the North Shore surf shop, allows tourists to step into a barrel of the iconic pipeline wave—a testament to his ability to bring the thrill of surfing to life on canvas.

But Kelly’s journey hasn’t been just about creating art; it’s about living it. Every stroke of his brush is infused with the emotions and experiences of his life, whether it's the thrill of catching a perfect wave or the challenges of supporting a family through his art. His approach to painting is spontaneous and driven by emotion, often starting with a vision in his mind that is directly influenced by his surroundings and experiences.

Kelly's artistic vision is also a family legacy, evident in his daughter Kayla, who shares his artistic flair and passion for creativity. Just like her father, she possesses a natural talent for drawing and painting, hinting at the genetic thread of artistic talent woven through their family. His oldest son, Sterling, and baby daughter, Kaimana, who is just learning how to paint and draw, further extend this legacy. Kelly's stepdaughter, Riley, also adds to the family's artistic spirit.

On his website, WhatIsArt.store, you’ll find not just a collection of his artworks, but a portal into the life of a man who paints not just what he sees but what he feels. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of the waves or the tranquility of oceanic horizons, Kelly Silva’s art offers a window into a world where water and pigment merge into something truly magical.

Join him in this artistic journey where every canvas is a story and every brushstroke, a memory of the ocean’s timeless song.