Maker's Spotlight: Kate Ritchie
I was lucky enough to be introduced to Kate Ritchie, and her gorgeous artwork a year ago, when quarantine first started. I was putting together a virtual maker’s market for Feminist Magic, and Kate was one of the many creators to apply to be a vendor. During this time of uncertainty- art, creativity, and the passion behind it has become so immensely important to me (as I’m sure it has all of you). I immediately fell in love with Kate’s unique use of different materials, the bright and bold colors, and the happiness and pure joy that emanates from her work.
Kate’s passion for creating is apparent by anyone who discovers her art or follows her Instagram- which is just a happy and vibrant place in the depths of the social media world. I don’t know about you, but I’m a fan of following people whose posts put a smile on my face, and who truly allow me to get to know them as a person and creator- and Kate truly brings you into her colorful world.
Meet the Maker
Kate Ritchie is a mixed media artist who is constantly exploring new ways to create. For her collages and abstract paintings, she usually starts with a predetermined color palette but the rest of the composition organically forms along the way. Ritchie views creating art as a form of meditation and will often work on several pieces at once until each artwork comes together. She likes to think about the abstract forms in her paintings as existing in a 3 dimensional space and will often incorporate shadows, highlights, and layering shapes to convey this idea.
She received a BA in Studio Art and Arts Management at the College of Charleston in 2014 and still resides in Charleston where she works out of her studio at Redux Contemporary Art Center.
Photo taken by: Taylor Czerwinski
Where do you gain inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from the gorgeous photos in National Geographic magazines which is where I source a lot of my images. I am also inspired by nature, sacred geometry, and bright colors!
What sets you apart from everyone else?
My art is colorful, bright, and loud!
What inspired you to start your own business?
I have always had a passion for making art and decided to pursue it as a career!
What's your favorite part of the creative process?
I love all of it! But I would say making a mess is the most fun part-- getting magazines piled up everywhere and paint all over me!
What has been your biggest success to date?
Being commissioned to created a piece of art that is now on permanent display at a local elementary school, Sanders-Clyde Elementary. I was the artist selected by the students in 2020 through their out reach program called Inspirational Pathways.
What are you most excited for with your business right now?
I am really excited to continue growing my audience on social media and connecting with new collectors. Every time someone resonates with my art, I do a happy dance!
Who are your 3 favorite small businesses?
Wow, this is a really hard one because the Charleston Community is FULL of amazing small businesses. I can only pick 3? Ok I would say J. Stark, Sightsee Shop, and Julia Deckman Studio. All of these people are doing cool and unique things and they care a lot about the Charleston community.
What's your favorite form of self-care?
Walks in Hampton Park or roller skating!
Treat your eyes and your walls to a stunning piece from Kate Ritchie by visiting her website here, and be sure to give her a follow on Instagram for your daily does of happy!
Who are some of your favorite womxn creators, artists, or businesses? Let me know in the comments!