We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Katie Von Kral. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Katie below.
Hi Katie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
Creating the mural honoring the Granite Mountain Hotshots was undoubtedly the most meaningful art project I’ve ever undertaken. It was a journey that began with a question echoing in my mind: “What are hotshots, and who were the 19?”
Art has always been my medium for storytelling, for sharing history and stories in a way that resonates deeply with people. When I was approached by Wild Rides TV to host a show where I could interview people and create art that would inspire, change, teach, and honor heroes like the 19, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
My personal interest in this project stemmed from my deep connection to the local community and my desire to pay tribute to those who sacrificed everything to save others. Despite not being considered a local myself, the events of the Yarnell Hill Fire felt close to my heart as they unfolded in Arizona, a place I call home.
In the year leading up to the creation of the mural, I immersed myself in research, interviews, and visits to the Granite Mountain Interagency Hotshot Crew Learning and Tribute Center. I walked the memorial trail, hiked to the juniper tree the hotshots saved, and spoke with family members who lost loved ones in the fire.
When given the opportunity to create the mural, I faced challenges due to the historic building’s layout and potential obstructions to the view. But with the support of the Tribute Center board and the Chamber of Commerce, I devised a plan for a collage-style mural spanning 462 square feet across 11 separate aluminum panels. This design allowed for versatility and preservation, ensuring that each cluster could be removed and displayed separately if needed.
The mural itself was a visual representation of what it means to be a hotshot, commemorating the 19 Granite Mountain Hotshots who tragically lost their lives. It featured portraits, names, symbols of bravery, and elements such as the Juniper tree, slurry drops, and quotes from Superintendent Eric Marsh’s “Who We Are” letter. Brendan McDonough, the lone survivor, was also included to honor his resilience and advocacy.
As I unveiled the mural, I expressed gratitude to all who made it possible, from the families to the sponsors and supporters. But more than anything, I hoped that the mural would evoke feelings of honor, empathy, and pride in the community. It was my ultimate tribute to the heroes who gave their lives, a reminder to be genuine, and a call to be a “Hotshot in everything that you do.”
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I was born in Las Vegas, Nevada, and now call Phoenix, Arizona home. With over twenty-four years of experience, I’ve carved out a successful career as an artist under the name K.V.K., blending patterns, color, texture, and design into captivating works of art. My journey began with a natural talent that blossomed at an early age, leading me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Arizona State University.
Throughout my career, I’ve catered to high-end residential and corporate markets across Arizona, Nevada, and California. My art and story have been featured in television and magazines such as Phoenix Home and Garden, So Scottsdale, and My Vegas. I’ve had the privilege of creating custom artwork and murals for celebrities and corporations, including Google, Pulte, and Del Webb, and facilitated the restoration of the 1926 Historic Civic Plaza in downtown Phoenix.
My signature mixed-media/collage style, featuring repurposed materials, has garnered recognition, allowing me to showcase my work at public and private exhibitions, auctions, and in my studio. I’ve also made my past, present, and future pieces available as affordable, limited edition giclees on various mediums.
In addition to my original works, I’ve gained popularity for my speed painting performances, creating famous portraits or scenes in ten minutes or less to lively music. These performances, often for charity fundraisers, have collectively raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for local and national charities. I also create live paintings during and for corporate events and parties.
My love for country and western themes stems from cherished childhood memories spent outdoors with my family. I’m a proud supporter of our veterans and all those who serve, and my artwork often incorporates musical elements inspired by country music and musicians.
Recently, I embarked on a new venture as the host and producer of “The Reveal,” a television show on a startup network that has yet to come fruition. In each episode, I interviewed guests with inspirational stories, created custom artwork based on their lives, and revealed it at the end of the show. Some episodes will be available on my website soon and other episodes are still in the process of being edited.
Despite facing challenges due to endometriosis, a painful condition that affects over 176 million women worldwide, I’ve remained determined to pursue my dreams. A portion of the proceeds from my art sales is donated to support the Endometriosis Association, reflecting my commitment to giving back.
Whether you’re interested in purchasing artwork, sponsoring my show, or collaborating on custom projects, I welcome your inquiries and look forward to connecting with you.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
My whole life has been about resilience. For more than half of my life, I’ve fought against the relentless grip of endometriosis, a battle that continues to this day, albeit to a lesser degree. Those familiar with the journey of endometriosis understand the arduous and painful road it entails. Yet, despite the challenges it presents, I’ve remained steadfast in my determination to pursue my passions and dreams.
As an artist, resilience is ingrained in every stroke of my brush and every piece of artwork I create. It’s about pushing through self-doubt, creative blocks, and external obstacles to bring my vision to life. The creative process itself demands resilience—the ability to adapt, evolve, and persevere in the face of setbacks and criticism.
But resilience isn’t just about overcoming personal struggles; it’s also about navigating the competitive and often unpredictable world of art. Success as an artist requires resilience in abundance. It means weathering rejection, embracing failure as a stepping stone to growth, and never losing sight of my goals despite the inevitable challenges along the way.
My journey with endometriosis and my career as an artist are intertwined tales of resilience. Each day, I draw strength from the battles I’ve fought and the obstacles I’ve overcome. They serve as reminders of my unwavering determination to thrive in the face of adversity, to create beauty out of pain, and to inspire others to persevere in their own struggles.
Resilience isn’t just a trait; it’s a way of life—a commitment to resilience in every aspect of my being, from my health to my artistry. And through it all, I’ve learned that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from hardships; it’s about harnessing the power within me to rise stronger, wiser, and more resilient than ever before.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist extends far beyond the strokes of paint on canvas or the intricate details of a sculpture. It lies in the profound impact my art has on people’s lives—the ability to stir emotions, ignite inspiration, and evoke joy. There’s an unparalleled satisfaction in knowing that my creations resonate with others, that they find solace, inspiration, or simply delight in experiencing my work.
One of the greatest rewards is witnessing the tangible impact of my art on those who view it. Whether it’s a heartfelt expression of gratitude from a patron who connects deeply with a piece or the sheer joy expressed by someone admiring my work at an exhibition, these moments are priceless affirmations of the significance of my craft. When someone chooses to invest in my art, whether by purchasing a piece or offering words of encouragement, it serves as validation that my work holds value and meaning in the eyes of others. It’s a humbling reminder that art has the power to transcend boundaries, touch hearts, and enrich lives in ways both profound and deeply personal.
Equally gratifying is the sense of accomplishment that comes from creating something that resonates with my own vision and standards of excellence. There’s a unique satisfaction in the creative process, from the initial spark of inspiration to the final brushstroke or sculpted form. It’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and expression—an opportunity to channel my innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences into tangible works of art. When I step back and behold a finished piece that fills me with pride and satisfaction, it’s a reminder of the endless possibilities inherent in the creative process and the boundless potential that lies within me as an artist.
In essence, the most rewarding aspects of being an artist lie in the profound connections forged with others through my art and the deeply fulfilling sense of personal fulfillment and accomplishment that comes from creating something that speaks to my soul and resonates with others. It’s a journey marked by moments of inspiration, creativity, and shared humanity—a journey that continues to unfold with each brushstroke, sculpture, and creation, enriching both my life and the lives of those touched by my art.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://artbykvk.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbykvk/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtbyKatieVonKral
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/artbykvk
- Other: email: [email protected] phone: 480-420-4ART
Image Credits
Granite Mountain Hotshots Tribute Mural progress shots Forrie J. Smith Speed Painting with Forrie J. Smith Ty Reoh Gun Range Staircase Mural