Today we’d like to introduce you to Kari Breitigam.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I grew up in a small town in rural Ohio, but I never really felt very at home there. Small town life just wasn’t for me. I had a deep interest in the arts from the time I was very young. I entertained several career paths, including fashion design and illustration, but I always knew I wanted to be some form of artist.
I began college as an art education major, but after one semester I realized that I was much more interested in creating my own work. I immediately switched to a painting major and completed a BFA in painting with a minor in textiles and clothing. I continued to study painting in graduate school, and after completing my MFA in 2012, I knew it was time to make a big change. I had attended school in Ohio and Indiana, and I wanted a new experience. I started applying for jobs all over the country, and my first job offer was in Houston. The job was temporary, and I thought maybe I’d be here a year at most. Houston, however, had more in store for me than I had originally thought, and six years later I’m still here.
Shortly after moving to Houston, I began to create jewelry and accessories that had visual similarities to the artwork I was creating. I really enjoyed the process and the work was well-received, so I began to sell at markets and opened my online shop in late 2013. In 2017, I co-founded Pretti.Cool with several other Houston creatives. Together, we create fun and well-designed products for the home. My part-time teaching job turned into a full-time faculty position in the art department at Lone Star College, and I continue to create and exhibit my artwork. Overall, Houston has been very good to me.
Please tell us about your art.
I am a visual artist and jewelry designer. I have an MFA in Painting, and although I do still paint, much of my current work is in fibers and textiles (mostly latch hook, appliqué, and hand-dyeing). I also create limited edition jewelry designs using fiber, metal, and clay. My works are minimal and abstracted. I try to break down my subjects into their most essential parts, often focusing strictly on color, texture, and shape. I crave that minimalism. Simple works seem tender and honest. They soothe and calm me in an otherwise overstimulating and stressful world.
For the past few years, my subjects have all been natural objects or landscapes. Recently, however, I have switched to still life objects. Both subjects find common ground as sources of comfort – the comfort of a familiar place or a familiar object. The artwork I create continually feeds into the jewelry and accessories I design and vice versa. The same materials, shapes, colors, and techniques frequently find their way into both sides of my creative work.
We often hear from artists that being an artist can be lonely. Any advice for those looking to connect with other artists?
I’ve found the Instagram community incredibly comforting and supportive. I know there’s negativity out there, but so far, my experience has been positive and kind. The daily, behind-the-scenes views into other artists’ practices help me feel connected and stay motivated. I think the key to feeling supported through Instagram and not feeling inferior by comparison is in being selective with who you follow. Follow individuals who are honest in their posts, who create work you believe in, and who make you feel a part of their community.
Locally, it’s really important to try to stay involved. I’ve met my closest artist friends at local markets and openings. WHAM, The Big Show, and smaller local pop-ups have all provided great opportunities to connect with fellow artists.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My work can be viewed on my website or Instagram. I also sell online through my website.
Contact Info:
- Website: karibreitigam.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karibreitigam/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karibreitigamstudio
Image Credit:
Taylor Brown
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
