Dear friends and collectors,
Welcome to July. Summer has settled into Santa Fe, and the studio has been filled with long painting days as I put the finishing touches on my upcoming solo exhibition, West Reimagined, opening August 28th at Blue Rain Gallery. There’s an interesting stage in preparing for an exhibition when the individual paintings begin to speak to one another, and the larger vision starts to emerge. That’s where I find myself now. In this month’s newsletter, I’d like to share a glimpse into life in the studio, introduce one of the new works, and reflect on one of the things I love most about painting, the joy of discovery. Next month, I’ll share much more about West Reimagined, the ideas behind it, several new paintings, and the inspirations that shaped the show. As always, thank you for your friendship and support.
Warmly,
Kathryn
Studio Update
These last weeks before a show have a rhythm all their own. Some paintings resolve quickly, while others ask for patience and one last look. I find myself stepping back often, looking at the whole collection, noticing threads I couldn’t have mapped out in advance. Seeing the body of work come alive.
Who says you can’t take a painting for a walk?
Musings: The Joy of Discovery
People sometimes ask how much I plan a painting before I begin. The answer is — enough to get started. If I know exactly where a piece is going, there’s very little left to discover. What keeps me engaged is that moment when the painting surprises me, when a brushstroke shifts the whole composition or a color lands in a way I couldn’t have predicted. That sense of discovery feels as vital to me now as ever. It’s why the West never grows old for me. There’s always something new waiting just beyond the familiar.
Seeing all there is to discover, in my own backyard this time.
Off The Easel | Featured Painting
Shining Rock, West Light. Painted from high country near Ghost Ranch, this piece captures the moment late afternoon light transforms the cliffs. I wasn’t interested in recording every detail, but in capturing that fleeting sensation when form becomes atmosphere.
Shining Rock, West Light. 36 x 58 inches, oil on canvas
