Meet Katia Von Kral, Art by KVK

Today we’d like to introduce you to Katia Von Kral, Art by KVK.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I began drawing and creating art and portraits when I was as little as 5 years old. I entered art contests throughout my elementary years and managed to win a few contests. When I reached high school, I decided to take art classes. Art was something I usually did for fun, so thinking of it as a career did not penetrate until my junior year of high school. A muralist was doing paintings in my home and thought my art was great. She encouraged me to pursue the profession. Even though I had always been very academic, I decided to give it a shot. Turns out it wasn’t the easiest road I could have chosen, but with much determination, goals, (and I like to think) talent, I have been fortunate to have participated in some really exciting projects and events that have kept my dream alive.

Please tell us about your art.
I create art that usually draws people in initially because of subject matter and/or colors. I do quite a few celebrity portraits, a lot of my work involves music, and a good majority of it has a country, cowboy twist to it. My work is mostly mixed-media and/or acrylic paint. I love incorporating captivating colors, patterns, repurposed materials, sheet music, and other symbolic elements into my work.

I like to do work that makes people happy and allows for positive memories or feelings. I do a lot of custom work that is sentimental, where I collage additional pictures, symbols, dates, and other repurposed materials into the piece that make it special to my client. Many of my custom pieces are commissioned as gifts for their loved ones.

In addition, I also paint large murals for residential and corporate venues as well as paint live for fundraisers and other events. I enjoy painting in front of audiences because I get to interact with people, and I also love the fact that I get to play a role in helping raise money for those in need.

We often hear from artists that being an artist can be lonely. Any advice for those looking to connect with other artists?
Being an artist can be lonely at times if you don’t hang around others who understand you. I found other artists to connect with in the past by taking advanced art classes and attending “artsy” events. I think social media has really made it a lot easier to connect with other artists too. I also don’t limit myself to just connecting with artists that do my type of art. I hang around musicians, writers, actors, etcetera because I have found that we are all doing art, just a different kind.

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
Anyone can see my work online by visiting my website, Instagram, or Facebook @artbykvk. They can also make appointments for a studio visit, inquire about booking me for a live event, or initiate a custom painting or mural by contacting me online through my website or social media,

My originals, limited edition prints, and other gift item products are available on my website or by contacting me direct. If anyone would like to come see a show in person and view or purchase my work that way, then the best thing is to follow me on social media and sign up on my email list through my website for updates on upcoming shows and events.

Contact Info:

• Address: 3128 E. Northern Ave
  Phoenix, AZ 85028
• Website: artbykvk.com
• Phone: 480-420-4ART
• Email: artbykvk@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbykvk/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtbyKVK
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/artbykvk

Image Credit:
Erik Merkow Photography

Ben Arnold Photography

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