Today we’d like to introduce you to Katherine Wiley.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
For a period of time I lived overseas in England; my dad was in the military and my family was stationed there. It was there in the beautiful English countryside that I first discovered my love for flowers and watercolors. I have always loved painting, but like a lot of other artists out there, I decided to pursue a more “practical” career. Fast-forward a few years: I had a career, got engaged, and this whole new chapter of my life was starting. It was during this time I remembered how much I loved to paint with watercolors.
I started painting again and decided to design my own wedding stationery. My stationery set led to designing one for a friend, and then for a friend of a friend. I really started to believe in myself and in my work so I took a chance and decided to put it out into the world. I took the next step and starting selling my artwork in local markets like The Boho Market in Dallas. From there it just kept growing and soon I will have some of my artwork and products in Salted and Sanctuary boutique in Denton. I look forward to growing more and learning more about myself and my art! The process of learning who you are takes time, but when it starts to unfold it is truly a wonderful feeling.
Please tell us about your art.
My art is vibrant, light, and airy. I use watercolor to capture the free-flowing feeling that you can see in nature and in life. I make watercolor prints, paper goods, and bespoke stationery. I take custom commissions for personal artwork or as gifts. I am super excited to announce I will soon have some awesome lifestyle products: pillows, phone cases, and more! Sometimes my process is easy and other times it can be difficult. I find inspiration in all aspects of life. The way shadows are cast across the facade of a building.
The way the light hits a cactus at a certain time of day. I carry these inspirations over into my work by sitting down at my desk and painting. Somedays its harder than others but I remember how painting brings me peace and joy and I find my brush moving to capture the light.
I hope to bring a little light, brightness, and joy into people’s lives. I hope my journey will inspire other young artists that you can pursue your dream of being an artist and successful. Artwork will always be personal to an artist to some extent; I have taken a little piece of myself and I share it with the world. Every day I am so thankful that there are people out there who enjoy it!
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing artists today?
I think the biggest challenge facing artists today is getting the courage to share their work and to realize they are an expert at what they do. A lot of artists I know struggle with “imposter syndrome” where we feel like we aren’t good enough and there is always someone out there who is better. The key is to just keep trying and creating and loving what you do. There will be people who will love your art and want to share it with you.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
You can find me on Instagram, Facebook or shop my Etsy shop, Willow Waters Shop. I post on my Instagram when I will be at any of the local Dallas markets. Coming soon you will be able to find my Prints and products at Salted Sanctuary Soap in Denton! I am also working on launching my website soon which will feature my own personal shop with new items – it’s something to be on the lookout for!
Contact Info:
- Phone: 469-338-8534
- Email: willowwatersillustration@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willow_waters_illustration/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WillowWatersIllustration/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/willow_waters_i
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillowWatersShop
Image Credit:
Kristin Sanderson Photography
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