Meet Kristine Kainer

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristine Kainer.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
As a child in a military family, I spent my formative years moving frequently along the Eastern Seaboard. I graduated from The College of William and Mary with a degree in Art History and high hopes. Unfortunately, job opportunities were few and unfulfilling. Returning to school, I earned a Master’s degree from George Mason University, and began a career teaching mathematics in the northern Virginia area.

When an opportunity arose to buy my husband’s family farmstead in rural Schulenburg, Texas, I left the hustle and bustle of the Washington, DC area to experience a slower, calmer pace of life. During this time of semi-isolation and reflection as well as blood, sweat, and tears, my creative spark was ignited in the form of painting.

Self-taught, I specialize in oils and paint my long-time passions: food, all things coastal, and the natural beauty found in ordinary objects. My work is found in public and private collections nationally and internationally as well as online and in various public exhibitions. Teaching workshops is my next goal.

Currently, I live and paint in both Schulenburg and Georgetown where I can experience rural and suburban life while being near urban areas. Of course, I am always looking forward to my next jaunt to the beach….

Please tell us about your art.
My colorful oil paintings seek to connect us with ordinary subjects in an extraordinary fashion. Whether food, seashells, or a tattered baseball, my artistic renderings use bold strokes with ethereal backgrounds. Often, I use my fingertips as brushes. (Who said finger painting is just for children?) This gives my art an atmospheric, dreamlike quality and I enjoy using this tactile approach to literally connect myself with my work.

The creative process–beginning with an idea and then bringing it to fruition visually–is emotionally fulfilling. It allows me–and hopefully, the viewer–to slow down and focus on the art. Perhaps, by gazing upon a painting, memories will resurface, dreams will flourish, and the viewer can feel a sense of serenity before returning to today’s hectic world of schedules and deadlines.

Do you have any advice for other artists? Any lessons you wished you learned earlier?
I truly enjoy solitude and the artistic life allows me to celebrate that. With previous careers, I was in the limelight throughout the day. It had its occasional rewards but was emotionally exhausting. As an artist, I am finally in charge of my own destiny–on MY terms.

If you love creating art, then you must find a way to do it. Make the time. It is never too late to learn and It is never too late to hone your craft to visually express your dreams.

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My work can be viewed 24/7 on my secure website: www.kristinekainer.com. To see work in person, I show at the Framer’s Gallery in Georgetown and at various statewide and national exhibitions. Locations details are listed in the events section of my website as dates draw near.

I also showcase my art on Instagram and Facebook. In both locations, you can get behind the scenes looks at works in progress. I enjoy your comments and feedback!

My next goal is to offer workshops. I enjoy teaching others and want to share what I’ve learned on my continuing artistic journey. Please let me know if you or your group/organization is interested and we can discuss arrangements.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.kristinekainer.com
• Phone: 5129666108
• Email: kristine@kristinekainer.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/kristinekainer
• Facebook: www.instagram.com/kristinekainerart

Image Credit:
Copyright 2018 Kristine Kainer.

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.