Artist Statement
Creative works that feature emotionally rich facial expressions, intentional body language, and monochromatic tones with saturated pops of color. A style inspired by realism, animation, and impressionism.
I paint to tell stories and create a visual space for people to feel grounded, encouraged to rest and grow. My artwork is rooted in learning to cope with anxiety, over thinking. Growing your own sense of self while trying to find moments of calm in the overwhelming noise life can create in stressful moments.
Illustrating art that weaves realism, symbolism, and emotional depth into tangible examples of what healing can look like, how hard it can be, and the benefits of it. I naturally explore my own healing journey as a black woman breaking toxic generational cycles, and confronting toxic emotional habits.
I have been told, “Your art looks like how a hug feels,” seems to be what the world needs right now.
Artist Bio
Morgan J. Kersey studied fine arts and illustration in her last 2 years of high school, and graduated in 2018 with a scholarship to University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA. From there she studied fine art further, digital art, and 2D animation, earning her B.A in art, with a minor in creative writing.
After graduating in 2022 she learned she would need to go through hip joint surgeries with a 6 month recovery in between each. Jireh Kay Art Shop was created in 2023 to give herself a platform to look forward to creating again. After her last surgery at the end of 2024 her art career could finally be pursued.
In high school Ms. Kersey gained experience in illustrating children’s book commissions. She has illustrated 6 books including her own titled “Little Moments” about characters based off of herself and her father, published in 2021.
In 2018 her story received an award for ‘Best Children’s Book’ in South Jersey. She plans to re-illustrate the artwork and republish the story.
Morgan is currently in the process of animating her 2D short “Why Can’t I Touch the Moon?”, coming 2026-27, and the animatic of the short was an honorable mention in the Afro Animation Summit 2024.
I have been told, “Your art looks like how a hug feels,” seems to be what the world needs right now.