Check out Kim Converse’s Artwork

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kim Converse.

Kim, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
As a second-generation Arizonan, I have deep roots in this beautiful state. Exploring the many scenic, often rugged, back roads of Arizona with my husband Kenny and our two labs Nellie and Cedar is a favorite activity of mine. I’ve always enjoyed nature. Being creative and imaginative is innate in me. Nearing the age of 60, I decided to try something new. Something of my very own, to give me goals, purpose and focus. I’m blessed to have found something to re-fire my ambition and creativity at the age when many people are beginning to retire. By society’s standards I’m considered a senior. But I’m just getting started; an emerging artist.

We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
Although having no formal art instruction, an idea of making birds came to me. After a little internet research, and a good deal of experimenting, I’ve acquired an ability to create awesome papier-mache mixed media birds. The birds are made from recycled paper; catalogs, magazines and newspaper. I use tie-wire for the feet. For the decorative outer covering I use a variety of special papers, fabrics, trims etc. Its fun trying new ideas. The best part is painting the embellishments. The eyes really give character to the bird. My skills keep improving. The birds keep evolving. Ideas are as limitless as the variety of birds in nature.

My original intent was messenger birds, incorporating into the design a banner or tag with a note of inspiration or encouragement. Sometimes lyrics from a song. The birds are not intended to be just another pretty bird, they have something to say, a song to sing. Additionally the bird ideas have evolved to include whimsical birds. Some are caricatures, acting out a human role. Just for humor and entertainment sake. In life we each get our share of personal struggles, heartaches and disappointments. The Kimbirds counteract that bringing a friendly lighthearted perspective.

The sterotype of a starving artist scares away many potentially talented artists from pursuing art – any advice or thoughts about how to deal with the financial concerns an aspiring artist might be concerned about?
As an emerging artist I’ve just begun to walk this out. So specific & practical financial artist advice I don’t yet have. The advice/encouragement that I do have is to keep believing. Even if life’s demands cause your art to be put on the back burner from time to time. Keep it in your heart and eventually life will give you the opportunity. Things have a way of coming around. Most importantly: Enjoy and appreciate every season of life! That’s the Art of Life, it pays in ways that are beyond monetary.

Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
I’ve recently built an e-commerce website as a convenient outlet for easy purchase of my art. At this time, Kimbirds are exclusively available from my website. I’m very proud of the job I’ve done building the website. Check it out!
Instagram is the place I most often share images of work in progress.

My Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn and Instagram accounts are linked from my website. Showing support by social media interaction; following, liking, commenting and sharing the posts would be a huge blessing. Of course, a purchase from the website would be great support! Kimbirds are awesome, unique, handmade, fine art gifts!!

Contact Info:

• Address: Avondale, Arizona
• Website: www.kimbirds.com
• Email: kimbirds@cox.net
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimbirdart/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kimbirdart/
• Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-converse-599684167/

Image Credit:
Ken Converse
Kim Converse

Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.