Alabama native, Carol Hickman was born and educated in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and currently resides in Wetumpka, Alabama. Although she did not start painting until the age of 50, she was hooked the minute she started. Formally trained as a Home Economics teacher at the University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa), Hickman designed clothes, recipes, quilts, and interiors. So it is not surprising that after retirement she fell in love with art and is an award-winning artist.  Hickman has served on The Kelly’s Board of Directors since its inception, served as the President in 2018 and 2019, and until May 2021 served as the Curator.