Creative People: Kaitlyn Kirchmeir

Kaitlyn Kirchmeir is an emerging artist and recent graduate of Mercyhurst University, where she majored in art therapy and psychology. I got to meet her in person this past winter when we chatted about art and life over hot cocoa. Little did either of us realize how lucky we were to have squeezed in a visit when we did, nor what the next six months would hold.

What I saw then, and what I’m sure you’ll appreciate in her interview, is how Kaitlyn fully embraces the serendipity of life and creativity. It has served her well thus far, and I’m sure will continue to do so as she begins her graduate work this fall.

I hope you enjoy!

I have always loved art and creating pieces ever since I could remember. I would want to create beautiful paintings just like I saw in the museums. In high school, I would compare myself to my classmates and try to create art that would fit an accepted standard. I did not have a clear idea of what my niche was and I had a hard time finding my style. I enjoyed drawing with inks and acrylic painting.

When I entered college, it was a different ball game and my art professor really opened my eyes to a whole new world of art making. I was allowed to experiment with different techniques and textures and styles. It was liberating! Over the four years of university, I feel like I evolved into the artist I am today. Before I was so focused on creating art that was like everyone else and doing the same things they were creating, but now I want to explore and step outside of the box when it comes to my work.

In 2017, I was introduced to the wonderful world of Acrylic Fluid Art. This is where to take acrylic paint, thin the paint down with pouring medium, put the paint into a single cup, and then pour the paint onto a canvas. The effects are mesmerizing and I have been addicted ever since I created my first painting. A big challenge that I face is that some people do not think that this technique is “real” art. An art professor told me that this was a “craft” – not art. This frustrates me because what is considered “real” art? Art is subjective and different for everyone. My painting style brings me endless joy; therefore, it is real art to me.

Creativity plays a vital role within myself as a person and in my artwork. I love to explore different techniques, mediums, styles, artists within the community. I am heavily inspired by Zentangle designs and organic forms of nature for my black and white ink pieces. I like to manipulate the elements and principles of design throughout the piece to create an intricate design. Creativity plays a huge role with that process and it has definitely evolved throughout my years as an artist. I am still learning, so I know my artistic style and creativity are still changing and growing, yet I am willing to embrace this change as it comes.”

Thank you Kaitlyn for sharing your creative journey! Your work is as real and as genuine as you are. Best of luck this fall in your studies, and above all, keep creating.

You can find Kaitlyn’s work at @scribblesbykaitlyn on Instagram.