Katie Over
IG: @katieesstudio
“In a dark and scary world, I feel like it’s an act of rebellion to make happy art.”
What made you want to join Art Gym? I joined Art Gym to be around other creatives and have a place to paint outside my home. I used to paint in a cramped space, all alone, and I wanted to be creative in a spacious studio.
How has Art Gym helped with your art practice? Painting at Art Gym has helped me step out of my comfort zone in my work. I was stuck in a creative rut painting in my own home studio, and Art Gym has helped me try new styles and branch out in my art practice. Being around other artists has been a blessing both socially and creatively!
What are you hoping to communicate through your work? In a dark and scary world, I feel like it’s an act of rebellion to make happy art. With the current state of the world and the trends of neutrals and toned-down colors, I feel like we all need a bit of color to brighten up our days. My goal is to bring a bit of light and happiness to people around me, or at least put a smile on their faces.
Who and/or what are some of your biggest artistic influences? The textures and bright colors found in nature constantly inspire me; from blooming flowers and bright blue skies, to geodes and oceans. I feel the need to capture the feelings of colors and convey them in everything I create. In addition to nature, I’m inspired by painters Joan Mitchell, Hilma af Klint, Van Gogh, and my mother, Rebecca Ellis.
What does your artwork mean to you? To me, my artwork means contentment. I create to find comfort and when I create, I feel at home.
