Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Groth.
Hi Katie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always had art as a part of my life. However, I pursued a career in veterinary medicine. After I graduated from college, I became a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT), but I still did art on the side.
In this career, I was experiencing a lot of burnout and compassion fatigue which is very common in this field. So, during the pandemic when I lost my job, I took it as a sign to leave the career altogether. I then took the plunge of doing art full time!
I started out doing pet portraits and illustrations. After a year, I wanted to try something different so I started experimenting with texture. I only ever saw textured paintings made with oil paint. However, oil paint is very expensive and can take days or a week to dry.
That’s when I decided to try the methods that I use today with modeling paste. My mixture with modeling paste was an experiment, but it really ended up working out! I have so much fun with it. This is also the time that I really grew my social media presence.
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?
Even though I love being an artist full-time, it’s not always easy. It’s very stressful knowing that I don’t have an income that’s set in stone.
A lot of my income is also dependent on social media. So, I’m always trying to make sure I stay in the good graces of the algorithm which can be very daunting and time-consuming.
I’m still trying to navigate time management and how to set time aside for myself. I tend to overwork myself sometimes, which can lead to burnout and forgetting important things.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I think what I’m most known for is my textured art. I came up with this method of mixing modeling paste and acrylic paint together. I then place it into a Ziploc bag, cut a hole, and pipe the paint like you would with icing.
I was originally inspired by the texture of frosting and some cute cakes I found online. I think that reflects in my work because people always talk about having the urge to eat my art.
A lot of people always tell me that my art makes them feel happy or brings them joy. It’s always nice to know that my art can make people feel something, but it’s even better to know it makes them feel good. That tells me I’m doing my job right!
I think I’m most proud of how many people want my art in their homes and how they immediately recognize my style. Sometimes I see orders from Hawaii, Canada, or the UK and it just baffles my mind that my art has traveled so far!
What does success mean to you?
Ultimately for me, success is doing something you love, working really hard at it, and then watching your hard work flourish.
Contact Info:
- Email: katies.collective.art@gmail.com
- Website: www.katiescollective.bigcartel.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/katie.collective
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/KatieBaxterArt/
- Other: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZTd9JsfBE/
