Bio

Art and animals have always been a big part of Kathleen's life. From early childhood she was drawing domestic and wild animals as an expression of her love for them, and she's always felt like something was missing if there wasn't at least one animal nearby. A lifelong artist, she studied and worked in commercial art, but found it unfulfilling. In early 2004, she found herself at home with a set of acrylic paints "to try," and fell in love with the medium. She enjoys experimenting with techniques and mixing her own colors from a limited palette. Kathleen has a deep love of the Earth and the rhythms of the seasons. She live in the beautiful Loess Hills of Iowa with her wonderful husband, a sweet Rat Terrier named Cloud and a cat who thinks she's the Queen of the Universe.

Artist Statement

The subjects I choose are mainly animals, because I've always felt a kinship and strong love for them. This connection inspires me to create - to express that love with brushstroke, color and light. I work with acrylic paints because I love their versatility and the effects I can create, from sheer washes to thick textures.

Dog portraits are very dear to me. It's always an honor to paint someone's beloved dog, to create with my own hands a tribute to the special bond and unending love we share with our canine friends.