Keilley Banks’ evolution as a visual artist and curator is a multifaceted story of reinvention, self-discovery, and a commitment to building community. From navigating the structures of the corporate world to embracing the fluidity of artistic expression, Banks has created a mosaic of experiences—one defined by empowerment and the creation of inclusive spaces for emerging artists.

From Corporate Suits to Canvas Hues
Banks’ transition into the art world was anything but conventional. Before fully immersing herself in creative work, she spent over three years in corporate public relations, including a demanding stint in financial PR. Though successful in her role, the pressures of the industry took a toll. “It burnt me out really crazy,” she admits, reflecting on the high-stakes, often hi-pace work environment.

Her corporate experience also reinforced the glaring issue of representation. While studying at a predominantly white institution (PWI), Banks took the initiative to establish the Black Public Relations Student Society—a response to the exclusion she encountered. “If they’re not going to give me a seat at the table, I’ll just make a new table,” say Banks. More than just a student organization, the society became a vital space for Black students to connect, access opportunities, and challenge industry norms. Its success, drawing 45 members to its inaugural meeting, underscored the essential need for spaces that prioritize inclusivity and equity.

A Moment of Reinvention
The global pause brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic provided Banks with the time and space for self-reflection. Leaving the corporate world behind, she sought a path that aligned more closely with her values and well-being. “I just decided I never wanted to be stressed out like that again,” she recalls. “I’d rather be unhappy in an artist’s way than unhappy in a corporate way.”

It was during this period of introspection that Banks initiated a new creative endeavor. “I didn’t even pick up a paintbrush until 2020,” Banks shares. What began as an intuitive process quickly developed into something deeper. “It just started happening,” she says, describing the organic emergence of her artistic practice.

Art as a Movement for Connection
At the core of Banks’ work is a deep engagement with personal narratives and collective experiences. Her paintings, often centered on Black identity, serve as vessels for storytelling and emotional expression. One such piece, Lend Me Your Hand, encapsulates this ethos. “I made that during a time where I needed help so badly,” she explains. Through her art, Banks communicates both struggle and solidarity, inviting viewers into moments of introspection and connection.

Beyond the canvas, Banks extends her artistic vision into community-building efforts. With her new platform, All My Friends Are Artists, she curates exhibitions and programming for emerging creatives, ensuring that artistic spaces remain accessible and collaborative. “I consider myself a community curator,” she explains. “I bring people together, and I typically bring them together through art.”

Her events further illustrate this commitment. More than just social gatherings, these experiences make a lasting impression on those who attend. “It was crazy—by the end, people were telling each other their entire life stories and supporting one another,” she recalls.

Banks is not just an artist—she is a community builder creating a movement that empowers emerging artists and redefines what it means to create with purpose. As she expands her impact, one thing remains clear: her work is not just about individual success but about uplifting an entire community through the power of art.

Keilley Banks: Forging Community and Connection Through Art

Jessica Alazraki values the opportunity to represent her culturE