Kye Ellsworth, a Rigby native, is gaining attention for his graffiti art, bringing street-style expression to the local community.
From gyms to food trucks, Ellsworth works with a variety of clients to beautify their spaces and bring their artistic visions to life.
“I wouldn't say I have a specific style, just whatever the client wants,” Ellsworth said.
One of his most recognizable pieces can be found at The Burlap Flower on Main St. in Rigby, but many of his murals are tucked away in less visible locations around town such as on people’s shoes and bedroom walls.
“That was really cool to have something in my hometown, something on Main Street that people could drive by every day,” Ellsworth said.
The Rigby community has embraced this growing art form, and Ellsworth continues to find new opportunities close to home.
“I thought it would be hard, and it was hard for a long time to start out because it's such a small area. I started pretty young,” Ellsworth said. “But now that things are going, it's definitely gotten way, way bigger. Like in the past two years, I've grown more than I ever would have thought of. So, it's a lot of good people in Rigby, you know, people setting me up. It's mainly through word of mouth.”
Although graffiti art often goes unnoticed or unrecognized, Ellsworth said his appreciation for the medium has only deepened over time.
“As an artist, you really see like, ‘Ok, this this might have taken them 50 to 100 hours,’” Ellsworth said. “That's something a lot of people don't realize is how much time and money and talent goes into this stuff. As an artist, you can see that. I always look for it.”
Ellsworth began creating art at a young age, starting with sketchbooks before eventually trying his hand with a spray can on his grandmother’s shed. What began as a hobby has now become both his career and his future.
“There's art everywhere. Just appreciate it. Graffiti's changed my life. And this painting and everything, it's such a blessing,” Ellsworth said.
To find his work, visit Ellsworth’s Instagram.
To hear more from Ellsworth listen to the full interview on BYU-Idaho Radio’s podcast on Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.