Kate Robinson, a self-taught abstract painter, has always been drawn to art, from childhood memories of losing herself in creative expression to her early recognition in high school. After spending years in education and health care sales, a life-changing moment in art class pushed her to pursue her true passion—painting. Today, Robinson creates stunning abstract pieces that not only serve as focal points in homes and offices but also convey messages of hope, joy, and growth. With work featured on Love It Or List It and a commitment to giving back, Robinson continues to make her mark in the art world.
By Sara Beck
Kate Robinson, a self-taught abstract painter, knew she loved art from a very early age. She has memories of getting lost in art classes while growing up and was admitted to the National Art Honor Society when she reached high school. In fact, one particular art teacher’s encouraging words have remained with her all these years and helped her make the decision to pursue a career in art after spending years in education and health care sales. “I recalled someone in my youth speaking to me, seeing talent and work ethic in my art, and telling me that I had enough of whatever I needed to possibly make it to art school and maybe make a living doing it,” she explains. “That voice trumped a lot of the negative ‘what-ifs’ and other inner doubts. So with family, friends, colleagues, and my high school teacher all believing in me, I started putting my art into the world and made money doing something I loved.”
When she began painting, it was with a focus on interior design that lent itself to abstraction. She believes abstract art can serve as a focal point and conversation starter in a home or office space. Her goal for clients is to “find the piece that draws them in, that they can't live without. This piece can be the connecting final element or the beginning point of inspiration that brings the whole room together." Experimentation with new techniques and color combinations are essential to her process, as is integrating upcoming trends in the interior design world. Five of her paintings were even featured on season 16 of the HGTV show “Love It Or List It.” The idea of her work adorning someone’s personal space excites her, and she describes it as “an honor.”
Citing her faith in God and her family as her two biggest inspirations, Robinson hopes her art evokes feelings of hope, joy, and growth—she believes “there is always some light, blessing, or reflection in situations.” Utilizing her talents to support good causes is also important to her, which is why she donates a painting each year to Freedom 4/24, an organization fighting to end human trafficking. “I believe talents and skills can be maximized to make an impact that is so much greater than just for self,” she says.
Robinson is currently painting in preparation for some upcoming art shows and events—the New Orleans Museum of Art for their “Art & Bloom” event this March, the Azalea Festival Spring Art Show through WAA, and the Landfall Art Show and Sale, to name a few. She has also recently joined Fine Art Local, where she’ll be showing her work year-round.
Kate Robinson is currently showing with Fine Art Local, a new gallery in downtown Wilmington. To see more of her work, visit fineartlocal.com and katerobinsonfineart.com