Texas artist Kay Kemp can't remember a time when she was not making art. She loves to experiment with paint, paper, and fabrics as she explores a variety of subjects and techniques. Her primary means of expression is mixed media collage and painting. Kay is a well-known artist with international experience, including Trinidad and Peru. Her work is influenced by "painting for process" in which images and patterns are allowed to develop spontaneously. She is often inspired by the materials, which are handmade papers, vintage fabric, laces, and collectables from around the globe.

Kay was born in 1948 in Estes Park, Colorado but has lived in Houston most of her life. She grew up in the Heights, now a historic district of Houston where numerous artists reside. In 2002 she returned to the area to live and create. With her cottage-like studio being only steps away from her home, late-night inspiration can easily unfold!

Kay's long-time career in graphic arts led her to become intensely interested in the creative process itself. Over the following decades her artmaking manifested in a variety of ways...as illustrator, designer, creativity coach, and teacher. She is founder of Wild Heart Art (www.wildheartart.com) in Houston, Texas where she guides others in finding their true voices for self-expression. Kay conducts workshops throughout Texas and special retreats in other countries. Her programs lead participants to experience their own creativity in new ways as they open to the joy and healing creativity brings.

Much of Kay's recent art includes images and symbols of sacred women. Her work expresses an appreciation of the spiritual and creative power of women as it manifests in various forms and archetypes. As Kay began to study the goddess, shaman, and crone archetypes, a shaman-like figure emerged in many of her collage pieces. She found this appearance fascinating and allowed it to freely develop as she began to learn more about the nature of this tribal character that can be either feminine or masculine.

The shaman archetype is uniquely complex and symbolizes both a healer and intermediary between the visible and spiritual worlds. It is also representative of someone who has traversed difficulty and emerges with wisdom, healing, and transformation - characteristics that strongly resonate with Kay. For this reason the shaman continues to arise in her work.

The goddess archetype is frequently depicted by her original hand-sculpted faces. These too develop spontaneously and then are incorporated in a rich background of fabrics and fibers. She uses her collection of antique kimono pieces to add further interest and texture to the work bringing to life the particular essence of the spirit of the goddess.

The overall body of Kay's work often elicits a spiritual response and has been described as healing and inspirational. The website is regularly updated with Kay's latest work so please visit the site often. To view her art, see her Portfolio. For purchase, special commissions, licensing, or inquiries please Contact Kay.