Today we’d like to introduce you to Kim Kirby.
Hi Kim, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
As a kid, I loved to draw and create anything I could think of and its still true today. My mom was the one who got me into painting. I used to paint ceramics with her and one day she suggested that I try painting a picture. She bought me a canvas and as soon as I started painting on it, I instantly fell in love with it. Its helped me in so many ways with being able to express my feelings, meeting new people and just the pure joy of creating. It truly is the love of my life. I didn’t start selling my art til I was in my late 20’s. I was afraid at first that my art wouldn’t be good enough, that no one would be interested in it much less want to buy it. I decided to take a chance though and show at a local coffee shop. I sold my first painting there. I’ll never forget that day or the feeling I had that someone actually wanted something that I created. It gave me the confidence to keep going, and from there, I’ve shown in galleries, Planet Comicon and lots of other festivals. Something I never thought in a millions years would happen when I first started painting as a kid.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I think the hardest part for me was putting myself out there. I’ve always been a shy quiet person. A part of showing and selling art is networking, talking to people, going to places you’ve never been before to see if they’ll take a chance on you and your art. Thats something I had a hard time doing when I first started out. It took me a long time just to work up the nerve to walk into that one little coffee shop and ask if I could show there. I will say though that the people I’ve met a long the way that took the time to help me, I will forever be greatful for. I believe some people come into your life for a reason and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. In return, I try to do the same for anyone who needs it.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m an artist who specializes in paintings, 3D paintings and other 3D wall art. I’m probably most known for my butterflies. I hand build and paint them using paper mache. They make great wall art and they’re my number 1 seller. I’m known as the butterfly lady at Planet Comicon lol. I think what sets me apart is my 3D paintings. Everything I make is hand built. Mostly with paper mache, but I’ll use any material I can get my hands on. I love to build as much as I love to paint. I enjoy the challenge of it and the endless creativity I have with it. I’m proud of the fact that everything I do is hand made and hand painted. I never had the opportunity to go to art school but I was able to teach myself how to do what I do with determination, passion and the love I’ve always had for art.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I guess what people don’t realize is how much I love listening to stories about their lives. So many times Ive had someone say that one of my paintings reminded them of something they did or an experience they had. I hear all kinds of stories and I love that. It’s inspiring to me and the fact that someone can take a painting I did have a completely different perspective on it is awesome.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Kims Chaotic Creations
- Facebook: Kims Chaotic Creations
