Embracing my identity as an artist…finally!

This year’s final guest artist is Kathy Whitham from Seattle, Washington. Like many of us, Kathy rediscovered her creative side later in life. Her paintings are a testament to her versatility, and to the joy she finds in experimenting and making new discoveries.

As the end of the year draws near,  I wish to extend a sincere thank you to all the guest artists who have so graciously accepted my invitation to appear on my blog.  In case you missed some of the posts, please do visit my website next week as I will provide the links to all the talented artists and their work for you to see once more.

If you are a creative of any type, and you would like to be featured as a guest artist in 2019, please contact me.  I would love to hear from you!

Criticism and fear in the college years

When I was a kid, drawing was like breathing for me; it was simply part of my daily life. However, as a college student in an art program, I became discouraged by criticism and fear. Compared to other students’ work, mine just didn’t feel “good enough” so I gave up on art. Along with my art supplies, that part of myself was stored away for many years.

A return to experimentation in art

After decades of ignoring my artist-self, I'm now making up for lost time by fearlessly exploring new art media and techniques. My work doesn't yet convey one specific style or "brand" because I'm still experimenting. My daily practice used to include sketching only realistic faces and objects, but now vibrant abstract art is my passion.

Discovering new art supplies

Using watercolor, acrylics, colored pencils, brush pens, and inks, I’m working on a variety of projects:

• A series of greeting cards featuring nature-inspired women in white ink and colored pencils on black paper
• Black and white portraits in water-soluble graphite
• Illustrations for my friend’s book about a special adoption
• Abstract floral landscapes in watercolor and acrylic paints

My goal is to eventually paint large pieces to share and sell. Meanwhile, I just want to try it all! Fear, self-criticism and judgment are no longer blocking my creativity.

Exploring new painters and the online art community

As an art student, my favorite painters were Monet, Degas, and other Impressionists.

Today creative people who produce folk art, whimsical portraits, and glass mosaic pieces inspire me. I'm grateful to have found the online community of artists from all over the world who are encouraging and supportive.

After taking a couple of online art classes for fun, I recently signed up for the Let’s Face It 2019 class to practice drawing and painting portraits again.

For the first time in my life, I’m truly embracing my identity as an artist, and it brings me peace.

You may follow me and see my work on Instagram: @katzeebrat.