Artists Biography:
Kathy Garnes has grown up in Indiana. She studied Fine Arts at Bradley University in Peoria Illinois and has spent a semester studying art at Parsons in Paris, France. After graduating, she became a flight attendant. She enjoyed seeing many cultures and visiting art museums around the world. Kathy left the airlines after fourteen years to stay home with her twins. While they were young, Kathy taught summer art camps at Hamilton County Artists Association and St. Elizabeth ... view more »
Artist Style: Visual: Expressionistic, Figurative, Murals, Narrative/Historical, Nature/Wildlife, Portraiture, Realism, Sacred/Liturgical Art
Artist Medium: Visual Arts: Acrylic, Colored Pencil, Drawing Media, Encaustic, Mixed Media, Oil; mosaic tiles
Over the years, I have primarily created oil paintings and pastel drawings. While my children were in school, I designed and created backdrops for school musicals. I really enjoyed painting on a large scale. Now, I am increasingly interested in public art. I primarily use acrylic paint for it is more suited for murals and public art. I love that the entire community can see and enjoy public art. People who do not go to art museums are exposed to art and will hopefully see the beauty in it as I do.
I have always loved painting people, which will continue to fascinate me. My love for nature and conservation has led me to incorporate animals into my paintings. There is usually a concept or narrative behind my images, which I research and make as historically accurate as possible. I often intertwine appropriate quotes in my artwork as well. I just love a good quote. I like to add extra details, so the more you look the more is revealed, much like a walk through nature.
Bradley University, Peoria IL-B.F.A. (painting concentration)
Parsons/American University, Paris France (semester abroad)
College of Du Page, Glen Ellyn IL-Sculpture course
Stained glass course, Homewood IL
Indianapolis Art Center-mosaic course, Broad Ripple IN
Hamilton County Artist’s Association(HCAA)-member since 2001
1st place Judges choice award for Rain on Main(painted rain barrel competition in Carmel Indiana August 2015)
Viewers Choice Award(HCAA annual Fall Show)
