Kelly's career as a picture framer began over 30 years ago when she was introduced to the art of picture framing while beginning her educational pursuits. Having first received a diploma in Art and Design at Niagara College she then added a BFA at The Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (NSCAD) these formative years were the early stages of her career as a visual artist. Having majored in photography these two worlds would soon merge, as Kelly’s passion for both thrived. Upon graduation Kelly found employment at some of Toronto's best photographic labs increasing her knowledge of photography and further developing her skills in customer service and picture framing. This merging of interests led Kelly to attend the International Picture Framing School in 2001 where she received formalized training that allowed her to develop her talent and creative vision as a picture framer. Her knowledge of art and the experience collected during this time soon became the basis from which her vision was realized as Akasha Art Projects Inc .