In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition for the people, businesses and organizations that help make our city great. The team at KelownaNow.com is passionate about this community and the people that make it amazing. We want to show our friends, neighbours, family and colleagues that we notice them and the fabulous things that they do.
What is your name?
Kelly Ray.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I have lived in Kelowna for most of my life but I moved to Grande Prairie in 2005 than moved back to Kelowna this July.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My family are my my favorite people to spend time with. Family is so important. Kids grow up so fast these days and we have seven kids, so I try and get as much time in with them before they are grown up and want to leave home.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Japan. I would like to learn their culture and learn more about Japanese art. It's a life dream to work side by side with a Japanese artist and to learn more about their art and the meaning behind it.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Michaels because they have wooden crosses that I like to paint.
What is your favourite activity?
Fishing with my kids.
If you had to choose: pizza, tacos, or burgers?
Pizza for sure.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Honestly, not to sure.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
To have a worldwide known artist tell me my work is amazing. It's a good feeling to hear that.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
There is so many memories, but I would have to say fishing with my dad. One summer we went out to McCulloch Lake and we kept catching fish one after another.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Our business has done a fundraiser every year, and every year we do it for a different place. We have done one for suicide prevention, Kev's kids, I have painted up a bunch of paintings and actioned them off to help raise money for kids that need help getting wheelchairs, medical care or whatever is not provided to them by health care. We have also done fundraisers for SPCA.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
World peace. We have way to much fighting going on and people need to be more aware of what is happening around them.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Hiking and going to the beach.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
My studio is my quiet place. I like to draw and paint when I need some quiet time.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would like to see change with homeless people. Things like special housing to get them on the right path to recovery and some place to work.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The people, the water and the scenery. Kelowna is a beautiful place to visit and to live.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Visit Japan
2. To participate in the Toronto tattoo convention
3. Take my kids to Disneyland
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I struggle with anxiety so that's where art comes in. It's my calming time.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest)
Facebook
What is the name of your business/organization?
Skelly's Web Tattoo Studio.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I have always liked painting and drawing. I grew up around people that were tattoo artists and when I hurt my back 14 years ago I thought this was the perfect time to get into what I really enjoy.
What is the goal of your business?
My goal is just to keep doing what I do and bring people's ideas to life. It makes me happy to see people happy with my artwork on them showing it off.
What has been your biggest struggle either in work or life?
Trying to separate work and family.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I think I would do things the exact same. I may change a few things like to start tattooing earlier but I am where I am and have everything that I need because of where my life went and I really don't think I would change that.
What do you always find yourself saying?
'Just let it be'
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
My wife. She's the strong one of the family and keeps everything flowing easily.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Local businesses struggle more than a corporation would. By shopping local, you're helping a family out and your money is coming from the heart rather than a production line.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Being published in 14 magazines all over the world.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
I would say all high school counsellors because they deal with so much and help shape our kids to become amazing people when they grow up.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I am who I am today because of everything in my past. I love art. I love to make people happy with their ideas. I thrive to make myself better. I work to live but don't live to work and I want to enjoy all things in life before it's too late.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE. Thank you, Kelowna.
