We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kendra Castillo. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kendra below.

Alright, Kendra thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

I was that child who was always rearranging my bedroom furniture, doodling on everything, and turning every space into a canvas. Luckily, I grew up in a home that championed creativity. My parents gave me the freedom to explore artistic ideas in ways that, looking back, were pretty extraordinary—3D wall murals, gallery walls filled with my own artwork, and even the chance to completely remodel certain rooms in our home.

That kind of creative freedom shaped me. It taught me that art isn’t just decoration; it’s a way of thinking, of feeling, of making sense of the world. Those seemingly small projects helped me realize how art brings ideas to life and helps people process emotions they might not have the words for.

Since I can remember, painting has been my way of processing emotions. I always say that color and movement were my first language. But if I’m being honest, I never thought I could turn art into a career. Instead, I pursued a degree in interior design, which I loved—but life had other plans.

After an unexpected move across the country, I found myself painting again, almost as a lifeline during that transition. At the same time, I started sharing my painting sessions on social media, not thinking much of it. Then, something unexpected happened—people, complete strangers, started reaching out, asking to buy my work. That was the moment everything shifted. Those early inquiries were a revelation. They made me realize that not only was my art resonating with people, but that this was something I wanted to pursue professionally.

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’m an artist, creator, and storyteller who believes art has the power to transform a space and connect us to something deeper—whether that’s a memory, a feeling, or simply the joy of intentional beauty. My work is inspired by nature and the art of living fully present, capturing movement, color, and emotion in a way that feels both bold and deeply personal.

My journey into fine art wasn’t conventional. While I always had a love for painting, I initially pursued a degree in interior design, thinking it was the most practical way to blend creativity with a career. But life led me back to painting, and what began as a way to process personal transitions soon became something much bigger when people started resonating with my work and asking to collect it. That’s when I knew—this wasn’t just about creating art for myself; it was about creating art that became part of other people’s stories.

Today, I offer a range of work, from original abstract and landscape paintings to fine art prints, greeting cards, and artwork for Samsung Frame TVs. My collectors value unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that make their homes feel intentional, curated, and deeply personal. Beyond just selling art, I help people find pieces that evoke a sense of connection—whether it’s a landscape that reminds them of a place they love, a floral painting that marks a milestone, or an abstract piece that sparks a certain mood or energy in their home.

What sets my work apart is its ability to bridge boldness with softness, movement with stillness. My paintings aren’t just decorations; they are conversations—statements that evolve with the space they inhabit. I’m deeply intentional about my process, allowing each piece to unfold naturally while carrying an emotional weight that resonates with my collectors.

What I’m most proud of is the connection my work fosters—not just between me and my collectors, but between the artwork and the spaces it lives in. Seeing my paintings in someone’s home, knowing they chose it because it spoke to them in a way only art can, is the greatest honor.

For those discovering my work for the first time, I want them to know that art isn’t just something to admire—it’s something to feel. Whether you’re looking for a piece that brings warmth and vibrancy to your home or a painting that tells a story only you can interpret, my work is here to inspire, to connect, and to remind you of the beauty in the everyday.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding part of being an artist is witnessing the moment someone truly connects with a piece. I’ve heard stories of paintings that reminded someone of a cherished memory with a loved one who has passed, landscapes that brought a much-needed sense of peace, and artwork chosen to celebrate milestones—welcoming a miracle baby, marking the purchase of a first home, or honoring a deeply personal journey. Knowing that my work becomes part of these moments is the greatest gift.

How did you build your audience on social media?

My biggest advice for building an audience on social media is to be authentic and tell your unique story. When you’re first starting out, it can feel awkward to share your creative process, but the key is to find a few aspects you’re comfortable with and invite people into that journey. For me, it started with sharing small moments in the studio—mixing paint, capturing the textures of a work in progress, and expressing how my love of nature influences my art. Over time, those moments built connections, turning casual followers into engaged collectors.

The best thing you can do is show up consistently, share what excites you, and focus on connection over perfection. People don’t just buy art; they invest in the artist, the story, and the feeling behind the work. If you stay true to that, your audience will find you.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kendracastillo.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kendracastillodesigns/

Image Credits

Floral painting progression shots: images by by Caylie Mash Photography