Peachy the Magazine Spring 2018 | Page 59

ARTISAN SPOTLIGHT While teaching, Kim also entered art shows and pursued gallery representa- tion. “I have been honored to see my art in the most amazing places, and yes, these successes are energizing and vali- dating,” Kim says. “Still, I am always questioning myself…how can I improve my work and grow as an artist?”  Kim’s work usually features figures and layered surfaces that both suspend and anchor the viewer in the space. Kim describes her work as “detailed except for the faces. I want viewers to see themselves or someone they know in my painting. When the faces are void of features, it allows viewers to fill in the details. I use color, texture and positioning to communicate joy, happiness and other emotions.” Christy Kinard focuses on floral still lifes that burst with color. She also paints the occasional bicycle. She explains her inspiration: “As a young girl I cruised on my bike every day. let me introduce you to JOY!, Kim Schuessler SPRING 2018 57