About
About Lori Poff Kellogg
Hi, I’m Lori Poff Kellogg, and welcome to the latest chapter of my life’s novel—this one’s all about creativity, transformation, and a lot of unfinished canvases propped up in weird places…
For years, I felt like the background character in everyone else’s story. You know, the one holding the snacks, cheering from the sidelines, or solving everyone’s problems. I was someone’s daughter, wife, mother, best friend, and yes, the occasional comic relief. But somewhere along the way, I lost the plot of my own story. Trauma and obstacles left me feeling small and silent, like a footnote in my own life.
But creativity? That was my well-worn bookmark, always saving my spot. I didn’t go to art school or spend hours mastering techniques—I just painted, scribbled, and wrote whenever I could steal a moment. It wasn’t about making art; it was about keeping my sanity intact.
Then came the plot twist:
Cue the pandemic—a time when the stress of managing a shelter for families experiencing homelessness reached a boiling point. I needed to put my anxiety somewhere that wasn’t, you know, my chest. That’s when my sketchpad became a lifeline. With no plan and no rules, I let my emotions spill out in color, mess, and magic.
Suddenly, art wasn’t just a pastime—it was therapy, liberation, and self-discovery all rolled into one. It turns out, painting is more than just brushstrokes; it’s an invitation to meet yourself on the canvas. And let me tell you, that meeting changed everything.
Now, I’m here to share that messy, beautiful, transformative process with you. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking for a safe place to splash some paint and feelings around, you’re in the right spot. Let’s make some art—and maybe even a little sense of life—together.
About Crystabella and Crystabella Studio
Let me introduce you to Crystabella—part mermaid, part muse, and 100% the spirit of my studio.
She was born during a time when I was clawing my way back to my dreams after years of telling myself they didn’t matter. The intention behind her painting was simple: “Redeem My Dreams.”
And oh, did she deliver.
Her name: Crystabella came to me out of nowhere—like a whispered secret. When I looked it up, I learned she’s a powerful mermaid (yes, really). She became my symbol of rebirth, growth, and letting go of what no longer serves me.
Her story (and mine):
Flowers bloom on her chest and stomach to show growth from within.
Nautilus earrings mark evolution and transformation.
One hand holds the healing symbol, the other a compass—she’s in charge of her own healing and her own direction.
Her starry crown? It’s all about claiming sovereignty.
And her jeweled third eye? That’s her trusting her inner wisdom—something I’m finally learning to do.
Crystabella is more than a painting—she’s a reminder that dreams aren’t meant to be buried. She’s the fierce, intuitive archetype behind my studio and my creative journey.
I named my studio after her because she embodies everything I want to share with you: courage, creativity, and the belief that you are worthy of the life you dream of.
So come on in, explore Crystabella Studio, and let’s create something extraordinary together. Who knows? You might just meet the strongest, truest version of yourself along the way.