Kristy Kurjan

A FEW THINGS ABOUT THE ARTIST

1. What do you do when you’re not making art? (Day job etc...).

Kristy Kurjan is an intuitive abstract artist specializing in large scale paintings based out of Traverse City, Michigan. In addition to art, she has authored and published four books and written for numerous publications. Her board book titles include: I Spy… A Pig in A Plane, Nap-a-Roo, Dream Sweet Dreams, and The Many Ways to Say I Love You. She is mom to three adorable young kiddos who keep her busy and laughing!

2. Why do you make art?

I am inspired by nature, textures, and the extensive beauty of northern Michigan. When painting abstracts, I let my intuition be the guide.

3. What inspires you?

My passion lies in the process of creating art that evokes emotion and brings joy to others. Water, landscapes, and organic beauty are often depicted in my artwork. I am inspired by textures in nature and the beauty of imperfection.

4. What/who are your influences?

As a college student I spent a summer in Paris studying art and art humanities. In the mornings we would walk the streets of Paris and visit museums learning about it’s vast history. In the afternoons the group would pull out our art supplies and spend hours creating art from this inspiring backdrop. One of the days I was honored to visit Giverny, in Northwestern France, the home of Monet’s lily ponds and where he produced his large-scale panels, including his collection of Water Lilies paintings. Impressionism has always inspired me, and most of all, Monet’s Water Lilies.

5. If you could meet anyone dead or alive who would it be?

My grandmother on my mother’s side… I hear she was wonderful!