Featured Artist Kathy Kehoe Bambeck

Enter the colorful world of artist Kathy Kehoe Bambeck, whose joyful images are created to lift the spirit. See more by visiting her website.

 

Colorful illustration of Monarch butterflies

“A Monarch’s Life” gouache, acrylic, ink, 20″ x 16″

 

As a young girl growing up in Southern California, I witnessed the transformative power of Disneyland in my neighborhood and then beyond. From an early age, I found myself drawn to the world of creativity, be it drawing, piano, or ballet. On the mile plus walk to elementary school, I would sketch trees, birds and houses along the way, captivated by every detail and nuance.

 

Whimsical illustration of a campsite

“Cool Camper” gouache, acrylic, ink, 20″ x 16″

 

Throughout my schooling, I received recognition for my artistic abilities, completing my BA degree in Art /Art History at California State University, Long Beach. Since my teenage years, I have been blessed with a constant stream of commissions, juried art shows and exhibitions. They allowed me to delve into a diverse range of artistic endeavors from detailed watercolor and pen & ink botanicals and home portraits to murals, illustrations, calligraphy, oil portraiture, gold leaf, acrylic and plein air painting.

 

Whimsical illustration of a window filled with plants

“The Garden Window'” pen & ink, gouache, acrylic, 20″ x 16″

 

That being said, the beauty of line drawing and detail remain my favorite medium and style. In my earliest works, I used old-school croquil pen nibs dipped in black India ink. Later I moved onto newer, less time-consuming pens attempting to recreate the wonderful expressive quality of the quill pen.

 

Illustration of a whimsical winter scene

“Home Sweet Barn” gouache, acrylic, ink, 20″ x 16″

 

Birds, buildings, butterflies and botanicals … these are a few of my favorite things!

 

whimsical illustration of a butterfly garden

“Butterfly Garden” gouache, acrylic, ink, 20″ x 16″

 

I recall discovering boxes filled with my childhood sketches and illustrated stories, artifacts tracing the roots of my artistic journey. My passion for art never wavered. It led me to fulfill my dream of visiting European art museums one summer in college.

 

Illustration of a cozy winter scene

“Waiting for Spring” gouache, acrylic, ink, 20″ x 16″

 

Embracing my bliss, I took the leap and left my day job at age 30 to pursue art wholeheartedly. For me, art is more than just a profession; it’s an anchor and a blessed gift. Having that passion inspires me to seek the best version of myself in every way.

 

whimsical haunted Halloween scene

“Haunted Haven” gouache, watercolor, ink, 16″ x 20″

 

Art has the power to uplift, entertain, teach, and make us laugh. It opens a window to the spiritual, connecting us to a deeper realm of existence. This is reflected throughout the history of art and why I feel so passionate about the arts. I find that having a purpose leads to many added bonuses. For instance, my love for drawing and studying butterflies led me to start raising them during the pandemic.

 

whimsical illustration of a beach scene

“The Sand Dunes” pen & ink, gouache, acrylic, 20″ x 16″

 

Today I license my designs for jigsaw puzzles and other diverse products. This has been an exciting endeavor, allowing my art to reach audiences worldwide. I am humbled by the impact visual arts have on people’s lives and feel privileged to share my passion with the world.

 

products with licensed illustrations

“Birdhouse Garden” gouache, acrylic, 20″ x 16″; licensed doormats & fabric (shown), jigsaw puzzles and more

 

To me, following my bliss means embracing the wonders of creation and being true to who I am. Art is a language that transcends boundaries and unites us all in the beauty of the human experience.

 

whimsical illustration of Big Bear Lake

“Big Bear Lake” pen & ink and watercolor, 26″ x 20″

 

I am simply a happy, grateful artist, grateful for the opportunity to pursue my passion and spread joy through art. Let us embrace the magic of creativity together and celebrate the world that surrounds us in all its splendor.

 

Kathy Kehoe Bambeck invites you to follow her on Instagram and Facebook.

 

 

Want to stay current on cutting edge business articles from Artsy Shark, plus artist features, and an invitation to the next Call for Artists? Click below to sign up for our twice-monthly email. You’ll get all this plus opportunities and special offers that you can’t get anywhere else!

Sign Up For Updates!

Speak Your Mind

*