Hannah Kelly is the artist behind The Ruru Studio, an evolving creative practice shaped by place, motherhood, and connection to community. Growing up in Bangalow on unceded Bundjalung land, Hannah’s early life was immersed in the natural beauty of Northern New South Wales—an influence that continues to echo through her work.
After more than a decade away from painting, Hannah returned to her artistic practice following the birth of her second child in 2025. This rediscovery marked a turning point, bringing renewed focus and energy to her creative expression. With a professional background in public health, her work is underpinned by a sensitivity to people, environments, and the subtle interconnections between them.
Hannah spent over ten years living in East Africa, where she met her partner and welcomed her first child. The vibrant textures, colours, and rhythms of the Swahili coast remain a lasting source of inspiration. In 2024, she returned to the Northern Rivers, settling in Eltham and re-establishing her connection to the landscapes of her upbringing.
Through The Ruru Studio, Hannah explores the layered idea of home—drawing from the waterways and hinterlands of Northern NSW to the coastal environments of East Africa. Her work reflects a sense of movement and belonging, shaped by the places and experiences that continue to define her life.