Artist spotlight: Kate Blomquist
What are three things you can’t go a day without?
Well, I can get by without much, but things that give me a lot of joy everyday are a good cuddle with my cat, Max, a hot cup of coffee, and some alone time in the studio.
Why do you love what you do?
Making things with your hands is a very special practice. I love being able to create beauty with simple materials.
How did you start making art?
I started being interested in making when I was really young. I have a very vivid memory from when I was around 5, I shared a room with my older sister and I wanted to use her colored pencils without her knowing, so I very carefully and gently shaded a sheet of paper with each pencil. I layered the colors, using every pencil in the box. The paper came alive with my little hatch marks.
Give us a rough outline of your process. What makes it easier/more difficult?
My process is most strongly connected to mood and experimentation. I have a certain feeling I want to express, and I like to play with the different materials in my studio to create it. This can be exciting because I feel open to possibility and finding new ways of making, but also its difficult because you have to accept that things don't always work and the search for creating a certain mark, color, light—it can be endless.
What is your biggest inspiration? Where do you draw inspiration from?
I try to zero-in on the small everyday moments that ignite my creativity. Right now, the shifting daylight hours are really inspiring. The sun breaking across the horizon is one of the most beautiful things, and I try to absorb the warmth of sunlight into my studio process.
What advice would you give yourself as a young artist if you could go back and talk to her?
Lately I’m really feeling the Martin Scorsese quote, “The most personal is the most creative.” Being open and willing to share your vulnerabilities is a powerful strength as an artist.
