Katie Runnels is a constant gatherer. Her artwork (collage, assemblage and combine painting) emerges from the conjuring that occurs between the discovery of found objects and the stories they compel her to tell. Her works are never planned or sketched and usually begin with a vision inspired by something that delights or intrigues her, from a simple color scheme, a compelling line of text, a photograph, or a vintage found object. Not given to verbal storytelling without confusion and a few hiccups, Runnels relies instead on her more intuitive ability to reflect, rearrange, and layer to convey her narrative. Her art and domesticity are inseparable; oftentimes a found treasure will cajole its way from her living room to her artwork. Runnels finds the subtext of decor and her own “nesting” instinct a fascinating theme, one that humbly recognizes the historical contributions of industrious and creative women. Her works address family, motherhood, daughterhood, homesickness, Southern living, domesticity, finding peace in the natural world, and the alchemy that dwells within antique found objects and the handmade.

Katie Runnels received her M.F. A. from Savannah College of Art and Design in 2004. Later that year she co-created shopSCAD where she served as Artistic Director until 2006. Originally from Fayetteville, Arkansas, she now lives in Indianapolis, Indiana.