Kristy's Journey

This was such an amazing night. The full story is in my "About Me" section. 6 months into painting, I won the "People's Choice Award," totally unexpected, but my supportive husband got it all on video. He was THAT sure that I would get an award. I thank God everyday for this man.

Audrey Stoker was the first artist that I reached out to when I started painting. I asked her a million questions and she so graciously helped me to start my art journey. She is one of my close friends now and I'm so thankful for her!

Conway League of Artist is a local artist group that gathers to paint, have events, field trips, and they have a few art shows every year. It was a great way to meet some experience artists. I won the "Suzann Waggoner Memorial" award for my "Smith Barn on HWY65" painting.

I was so honored to illustrate a children's Christmas book for my church family. The author is the lovely, Madelyn Caruso and next to her is our pastor, Paul Hudson. Watch out for Maddie in the future! She's amazing and I can't wait to see how God works through her writing!

When I first moved into my "suite 4" studio, I hosted some children's painting events. This was called "House built on a Rock" from Matthew 7:24-27

These classes only happened a few times because summer was so busy! I loved it for the time being. 

This was called "Stormy Seas" from Matthew 8:23-27

This was such a blast! I led a paint event with my small group. The couples were supposed to stretch the picture, each doing a half on their canvas but they had to match the colors and the whole scene. 

We decided to include kids on this one. The kids painted actually pumpkins, while the adults painted pictures of pumpkins. 

My husband, Caleb, biggest supporter, sat with me all evening at this gala. 

This was such a great event to raise money for the Call in Conway, AR. I performed two different live paintings that night and they auctioned them off. I loved making connections and visiting with everyone about my paintings. Glory to God!

After performing the live paintings, I sat down for dinner and enjoyed hearing the items auctioned... When it came to my painting, the auctioneer called me up. I was so nervous walking up and whispered "What!" He said, "I really think you should talk about the painting." I argued with him and finally just took the microphone, explained what the meaning was, and went to sit back down. It was funny, but a great experience. 

The W Collection is a boutique off of Front St. in Conway. They had a grand opening and allowed me to do live painting for the day. Again, I loved the connections I made from this. Such a great experience. This painting, later won an art show award.

Another amazing night in downtown Conway for the Engage Managment art show. The exact same thing happened as last year. I unexpectedly won the "People's Choice Award" for the "Lion and the Lamb"

Caleb and I standing next to one of my favorite paintings, "The Example"

My mother in law, Annette, who has always been so supportive, brought the kids to the show, which didn't last very long. But I was so glad they got to come see the show! Caleb and I finished the night as a date.

This was such a fun night at Rogue Roundabout restaurant on Chestnut & Main St., in Conway, AR. Chris & Jessica Smith were so helpful in making this happen! More paint events to come!

We love this restaurant! They hosted a little art gallery for the evening. A few of us artist set up our artwork on display and had yummy dinner. 

I met Hulk Hogan and had him sign my painting. My sister, JoLeigh, told me the night before that HULK was coming and I decided to try painting a picture to take to meet him. When I got there, they cut the line off. So, my sister took the painting in. They said "go get your sister!" It all worked out and was an amazing experience. THE Hulk Hogan sat down to have a conversation with me about my artwork.

I'm working on a commission here in the studio. Photo credit goes to a sweet friend that I met at the Seven Oaks art event, Pam Laffoon. Her husband, David Laffoon, is an amazing artist. 

This was such a great event! Us ladies got together to paint a scene of the tomb and crosses for Easter. I absolutely loved leading this and can't wait for more! Our ladies also have "Create Nights," where each of us brings whatever kind of crafty thing we are working on or want to learn and have fellowship while we create!