Through my art, I celebrate cultures and peoples surrounding me.
Initially trying to find a relaxing hobby, Kristen found joy in portraying scenes of her daily life through the timeless medium of watercolor. Studying the art of watercolor through books and online tutorials, Kristen found peace from the tragedy she and her husband faced daily while working with patients in rural Myanmar during the COVID pandemic. When the pandemic turned into turmoil in her beloved Myanmar, Kristen desperately wanted her art to provide its viewers with a glimpse into the world that is crumbling around her cherished neighbors and friends. Each of her pieces represents a scene from the rural area where she serves in picturesque northern Myanmar with her husband and four children. She is excited to celebrate the fascinating culture she has grown to love through the fine art of watercolor painting. Kristen’s hope is that her works of art promote awareness about the beautiful people of Myanmar and inspire others to celebrate the Glory that has been placed in every life by our awesome Creator!
Why do I paint?
Details bring life!! It’s the details in my art that I believe bring the beauty and atmosphere needed to portray the life of my references. The wrinkles of a face as it smiles, the folds of a bag laying open on a table, the texture of the foliage in a landscape, and the numerous shades of green in a rice field are all needed to display the glory that can be found in every person and every place. Every life (from the man selling spice at the market to the laughing Palaung Grandma), every people group, and every place deserves respect and should inspire awe in the beholder. Through my art I want to celebrate the unique cultures and peoples that surround me. Using watercolor, I play with bright, vibrant colors, various shades, significant textures, and striking shadows in order to grab the viewer’s attention and point them to the glorious life that can be found and enjoyed in the subject.
I deeply hope that you find joy in my art as I have found joy in making it. May it inspire you to pray not only for the peoples of Myanmar, but for all hurting people around the world. Thank you for being here! May we delight in His Glory together!
-Kristen
