Meet Kaitlin Keirsted

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaitlin Keirsted.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
My story started quite recently, six months ago to be exact. My 30th birthday was approaching quicker than I was willing to admit to myself. Thirty is, well, a strange age. I had these expectations that I should be at a certain point in my life; I should own a home, have an organized closet (mine is a mess!) and maybe I should have had a couple kiddos by now. Turning 30 definitely caused some serious introspection for me, to say the very least.

In the midst of this pre-midlife crisis, painting came to me rather suddenly. I was scrolling through Instagram when I came across an incredible artist by the name of Stefa. I was so inspired by her work, I immediately began watching YouTube tutorials to try and learn how she creates such beautiful masterpieces. A day passes, and I start putting the paint to canvas. I had no expectations, just wanted to see what these 30-year-old hands could create.

It was love at first stroke. A sense of peace came over my entire being, and I knew it was exactly what I was supposed to be doing. Something in me had caught fire, and there was no turning back.

Please tell us about your art.
Since I am a newer artist, I’m still on the journey of defining my personal style. Six months ago, when I first started creating, I focused on pour painting. Pour painting was an incredible introduction for me into the world of acrylics. It’s such a unique way to blend colors and explore fluidity. You could use the same four paints over & over and never create the same blend!

As far as tools go, I don’t let brushes or palette knives limit me. Most recently, I’ve been playing around with squeegees and sponges. One of my favorite tools to paint with is actually a wood distressing tool. Canvases are just as fun to explore! I’ve even used wood & linen. Although, I use many different tools & mediums to create, the unifying aspect of every piece is bright and bold color. My ultimate hope is that these colorful, abstract pieces I make bring people joy.

What do you think about conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
My journey as an artist would have been much different if it weren’t for the infinite resources & learning tools we currently have at our fingertips (thank you, internet). I was first inspired by a German artist who I found on Instagram, then I started learning how to paint through YouTube videos, and now, I share my work with my friends and family through social media. I believe that this connection has enabled the Phoenix art community to grow in ways it simply couldn’t before.

We can encourage other makers by sharing our stories with one another. We all have such unique backgrounds & experiences, yet share one common thread: creating. I believe sharing our own journeys will build a stronger art community here in Phoenix!

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I’m currently in the process of setting up my Etsy shop, so that should be live here shortly! As of right now, you can follow me on Instagram- my handle is @kaitandpaint. I also have a page on Facebook, called Kait and Paint, that I would love for you to check out!

Contact Info:

• Phone: 6025785025
• Email: kait.keirsted@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaitandpaint/
• Facebook: http://facebook.com/kaitandpaint

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.