Today we’d like to introduce you to Katrina Rumsey.
Hi Katrina, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have always loved art and animals. I grew up going to the Toledo Art Museum and Toledo Zoo regularly, but fell in love with painting in my sixth grade art class, when I first painted a watercolor duckling. By the end of high school, my art led me to State and Regional Finalist for the Ohio Governor’s Youth Art Exhibition, Third-Place Finalist in the Perrysburg Historic Art Contest, and multiple scholarships.
Although I began college as an art major, my passion for the natural and behavioral sciences led me to pursue my Bachelors of Science in Recreation and Tourism Management from Georgia Southern University. I founded Katrina Rumsey Artistry in October 2022 to combine all aspects of my background in youth recreation, art education, and plant wildlife research by providing fine art prints and custom artwork reminiscent of my favorite things.
Now living in Southeastern Michigan, I find inspiration in the great outdoors and daily life, and aim to connect people to their communities, families, and selves through environmental and creative education.
When I’m not painting, you’ll find me taking care of our twin babies, gardening, reading, cooking, exploring my small town, or watching our back yard wildlife.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In the span of the last six years, I experienced a faith transition (Mormon to Christian), a transfer of universities, half a dozen moves (a few of which were across the country), a shift in my circle of support, marriage, and the birth of our twins. It’s been a very busy time, so I’ve needed to make time to paint where I can. Starting my own art business during college was no easy feat either, since campus, home, and work were all an hour away from each other. I faced a lot of imposter syndrome too, but teaching art classes, increasing my commissions, and continuing to improve my art skills and business practices has helped me realize that there is beauty and joy in the imperfection.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am primarily a wildlife and lifestyle painter, specializing in acrylics, mixed media, and water-soluble paints. Through my artwork, I aim to create serene landscape and wildlife paintings that rejuvenate you with the wonder of the outdoors. From snow covered mountains to a deer fawn romping through the forest, each piece is designed to bring the subtle joys of nature directly to you. I love creating custom artwork, giving new life to beloved memories by combining multiple photos into one-of-a-kind pieces. I find inspiration in natural settings and in the simple details of daily life, and I am most proud of my efforts when I can guide others towards noticing the subtleties of color, texture, and movement.
What matters most to you?
My faith in God and new little family are everything to me. I knew years ago when I started this business that I wanted to stay home with our future kids while having a way to contribute to the family finances a bit. Now that I have twin babies, I work on art during nap times to make the most of the time I’ve been given and make a little bit of progress every day. My art practice reflects the importance I place on inner peace, as most of my references come from real encounters with wildlife during moments of reflection and prayer. I want to praise God by memorializing the times He’s shown His hand through Creation.
Pricing:
- Fine Art Prints are available from $10
- Custom Artwork starts at $1.50 per square inch
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.katrinarumseyartistry.com
- Instagram: @katrinarumseyartistry
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Katrina-Rumsey-Artistry/61550830044330/
Image Credits
Katrina Rumsey
