My name is Shelly (Koss) Courtwright and I live in Wind Ridge, PA.  I work as an artist painting murals, woodburning, and attending craft festivals.  Art has always been a passion of mine as far back as I can remember.  Growing up, my dad and my sister have had great artistic influence on my artwork and continue to do so.  The Lord has blessed me with a dedicated husband and beautiful daughter who inspire me to create.

I graduated from Seton Hill University in December 2006 spending half my time as a graphic design major and then earned my degree in studio art.  Upon graduation, I held my first solo art exhibit.  My show focused on the beauty of nature and God.  I am very grateful for the professors at Seton Hill.  The beginning of my mural business started with help from SHU.  Special thanks to Sr. Mary Kay, Carol Brode, Maureen Vissat, and Phil Rostek.

At Seton Hill I had a unique experience to work for Touchstone Center for Crafts for the entire summer of 2006.  Classes are taught every week at Touchstone from blacksmithing to painting to glass.  I was the Studio Resident Assistant for the painting, photography, and fiber studios.  I worked in an environment with professional artists and eager students.  I was guided by well-known artists such as; Phil Salvato, Ron Donoughe, Bill Vrscak, Bill Pfahl, Ron Thurston, Ralph Welsh, and Donna Haas.  Teaching a children's course for a week was also a very enjoyable experience!

After graduating I quickly started up my own business, Koss Create and Paint.  I started woodburning at a very early age in grade school with the craft wooburners, but once I found the professional woodburner from Colwood I began to take woodburning to a whole new level.  I love to paint and find it very rewarding.  Painting murals has been a passion of mine for a long time.  I want color in the world and on my walls.  

Above all else I thank God for all he has allowed me to do with the gift of creating! 

"You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand."  Psalm 16:11