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Life & Work with Katie Lowran


Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Lowran. 

Hi Katie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.

Sometimes the most precious gifts come from the most painful experiences of our lives. 

My last art class was in elementary school. All throughout my adulthood, I would say that my art skills were “stunted” at a 5th-grade level. That is until I experienced heartbreak. 

In July 2018, I experienced immense sadness, grief, and an overwhelming sense of loss. I shattered; my world shattered. 

My journey as an artist begins here. In October 2018, I received my “calling.” This started a great urge to paint, be an artist, share art, and teach… An internal feeling that could not be ignored. I had no idea how or with what. 

Since then, I have painted over 170 pieces of artwork, including 23 commissions, been a part of over two dozen exhibitions, and have been fortunate to sell my work all over the United States. 

It is a paradox of sorts: sometimes, one has to “shatter” to truly have the soul open up to powerful insights and life-altering epiphanies so the gifts can fall into place. Today, I get to share my inspiration, light, and love with others through my work. My heart is so joyful to be painting, and I feel so honored to have this gift – my true passion found! 

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I have been so fortunate! I can easily think of at least three things on any given day as to why I am grateful. My only obstacles, or opportunities as I like to call them, are those that are the same for everyone; time and energy. I work full-time as an Executive Assistant and Board Administrator for the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy; a national Land Trust leader and I maintain my focus on my employer during work hours. 

My energy thief is fibromyalgia – a chronic pain disease. I have to be careful not to overdo it. 

What time and energy remain is for living out my artistic life. 

Life gets in the way, sometimes. Usable time and energy are things everyone has to navigate around to continue to be successful. I am no exception. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a fine art acrylic artist. My artwork is all about passion, whether it be people, places, or the allure of nature. My artwork seeks to capture those moments in life that leave us breathless. 

In order to accomplish this, I paint using a gentle, unhurried process of infusing texture and layers of eye-catching vibrant colors to provide my viewers with an emotional experience in a meaningful way. 

On December 1, 2020, I was the spotlighted artist on northern Michigan’s 9 and 10 News “The Four.” 

My artwork is unique in that I internalize colors to a high degree through a phenomenon called synesthesia. The result is a cross-sensory perception evocated by the experience of my viewers. 

What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Throughout our life, we will pick up important lessons along the way. Life is a continuous learning experience. 

1). The human exchange of art and ideas is so important! 

2). Your intuition is your superpower so pay attention to it. 

3). Be grateful for three things every day. This will help decrease your stress and frame your world in joy, positivity, and opportunity! 

Contact Info:


Image Credits

Scott Wilson

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