Born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina, Kelly Ferguson is deeply inspired by the natural and social landscape in which she was raised.

Her education from Converse University includes a BFA in Writing, a BA in Studio Art and Digital Media, and a BA in Hispanic Studies. She has been a storyteller since before she could write, illustrating stories while her  grandmother transcribed the words.

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As both a writer and an artist, she takes every opportunity to engage in creativity. Kelly co-founded a nonprofit arts and culture publication, Hellmouth Magazine. She is on the board of A1 Lab Arts and the Knoxville Writers Guild.​ Growing up, she ran her high school newspaper, directed her college literary magazine, and edited the UReCA Journal. She currently serves as the Director of Lilienthal Gallery in Knoxville, TN.