Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kathryn McGregor. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Kathryn thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

My parents have always been incredibly supportive of my artistic pursuits. From a young age, they encouraged me to explore painting and drawing after seeing the way I took to it. After school everyday, I would retreat to my room to immerse myself in my art. It became one of my primary sources of entertainment and relaxation.

In high school, with my parent’s encouragement, I began taking private lessons from a family friend who was an artist, which ignited my desire to attend art school. Although I was potentially considering nursing or dentistry careers, my parents continually urged me to follow my passion. They recognized that my true love lay in painting and creating art, and their unwavering support led me to pursue an education in the arts which led me to becoming a full time artist.

Without their encouragement, faith, and support, I might not be on the path I am today. It’s hard to say where I would be without their influence; their belief in me has been pivotal in my journey. I am truly grateful for the way they raised me and the foundation they provided for my artistic endeavors.

Kathryn, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

After graduating college in 2021, I faced the challenge of building a career as an artist. I worked in various art-related roles, including as a gallery assistant in Michigan and later as a Marketing Assistant for the Chandler Center for the Arts in Arizona. Throughout high school and college, I took on oil painting commissions and, inspired by a family friend, I became intrigued by live wedding painting. Despite my initial hesitations, my friend, my mom, and my husband’s encouragement motivated me to research this niche.

In March 2023, a wedding planner contacted me about painting at an upcoming wedding. Although it was my first live event, I assured her of my experience and creativity, and I booked my first wedding a month later. Since then, my business has slowly flourished. In January 2024, I left my marketing job to focus on art and live painting full-time, and I couldn’t be happier. I specialize in capturing live moments at weddings, creating commissioned work for clients and I’m also beginning to showcase my personal artwork at festivals around Arizona.

My personal art explores the interaction of people in nature, reflecting a desire to capture fleeting moments. Live painting embodies this concept, allowing me to observe and portray events from my unique perspective. I strive to make the wedding planning process smoother for couples, alleviating stress with a positive, collaborative approach. This fulfillment of making art and also helping others drives my passion for what I do.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

In terms of the technical and creative side of my job, I always have a goal to get better, develop my unique style. It’s always so interesting looking back over the years to see how far I’ve come. However, the mission I have for my art business is to bring joy and creativity to the lives of others, whether that is creating a custom made commission for them or simply educating them on what art its & why we need it.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

To me, I think the most rewarding aspect of being a creative is watching someone else understand your art. It’s SO exciting to see someone put the pieces together or even tell you things you might not have even known about your own work.

Contact Info:

• Website: kmfineartstudios.com
• Instagram: @weddingpainter.az
• Facebook: @weddingpainter.az

Image Credits
Mary Claire Photography | https://maryclaire-photography.com Taryn Schae Photos | https://tarynschaephotos.com