We were lucky to catch up with Kierstynn Lepper recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kierstynn, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
One of the most meaningful projects I’ve created was an oil pastel portrait, in August 2024, the piece became a powerful personal expression of healing and renewal. At that time, I was going through a dark chapter in my life, having to make the painful choice to walk away from someone I loved deeply. While I cared for them so much, our relationship with each other wasnt healthy, days together felt like a battle for my mental well-being, my world felt drained of color, it was as though I was stuck in a grey haze. This artwork became a way of healing, morning the love I lost and the idea of what I wanted while reclaiming my joy and self-worth. The image symbolizes getting back my light and my color after losing so much of it prior. The flowers growing towards me in the piece represent the power I regained in shining so brightly, so confidently, that even nature responds to that energy. A quote I like is ‘Shine so Bright even the Flowers grow Towards you.’ It’s a reminder to never let anyone dim your light, nobody, no matter how close to you they are. Creating this piece was my way of saying that I am a kind, joyful, and resilient person who can come out of the darkest moments stronger and more radiant and I can spread that light to others. It wasn’t just about creating art; it was about telling my story, one of hope, strength, and renewal. Now, whenever I look at this piece, it serves as a constant reminder of my journey, my healing, and my unwavering commitment to remain true to the brightness within me.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I first got into art with the help of my mom, who is also a very creative person. From a young age, she always encouraged me to draw and create, whether it be copying from her drawing book, I loved so much, or whimsical mermaids and fairies out of my imagination. One of the most pivotal moments in my artistic journey was receiving my first art desk in middle school from my parents. That space was MY space, my very own creative space, where I could explore endless art tutorials on YouTube and Pinterest, and really dive into experimenting with different mediums. It was in high school, when a friend asked if I ever thought about art as a career, that I began to seriously consider it. Until then, I had viewed art more as a hobby, but I realized I could turn my passion into something more. Now, I’m studying for my bachelor’s degree in art, with a focus on studio arts and a minor in business at the University of Olivet. Outside of school, I’m growing my art business by taking commissions, participating in shows, building my online presence, and constantly exploring new techniques. I work in a wide range of mediums, including oil paint, colored pencil, oil pastel, acrylic paint, and clay, and I love taking on custom projects. Each piece is crafted with the intention of spreading joy and celebrating life. What sets me apart is my versatility in different mediums, and my dedication to creating artwork that resonates with people on a deeper emotional level. I love bringing color and happiness to my clients’ lives through art. The thing I am most proud of is my resilience and dedication to my craft. I pour my heart into every piece, and my goal is to spread genuine happiness and joy through my work. Life is meant to be lived fully, and I hope to inspire others to embrace that through my art.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
In the summer of 2024, I was at a major crossroads in my life. After completing my freshman year at the University of Michigan, I returned home feeling emotionally drained. My mental health had taken a toll due to a challenging relationship, and everything felt heavy. I was in such a dark place that I even considered not going back to school. With only a month left of summer, I found myself in a “crunch time” moment—either stay stuck in my sadness or make a bold change. I decided to pivot. I shifted my focus back to my passions, especially art, and I sought out a new environment that would allow me to heal and grow. I enrolled at the University of Olivet, closer to home where I could be surrounded by friends and family. It was a moment of clarity, I realized that I had the strength to pick myself up and create something new out of the difficult circumstances. I secured multiple scholarships, easing the financial burden, and embraced the smaller community, which has allowed me to focus more deeply on my craft and business. This experience reinforced my resilience and determination, showing me that I have the power to adapt, pivot, and thrive even in the darkest times.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
I think that society can support artists and a thriving creative ecosystem by creating more accessible resources and opportunities for growth through a multitude of systems. First, creating more public spaces for artists to display their work, such as local galleries, or in local business or community centers, and art festivals. These would give exposure to emerging talents in the art community, the best way to get your name out there is to physically show what you can do. Secondly, I think it would be beneficial to start investing more in arts education from an early age, so many school brush over the importance of art, only focusing on the core curriculum, which I find equally important but it doesn’t me we can push creativity to the side, ensuring that creativity is encouraged and seen as a valuable skill and not just a hobby could help brighten so many minds.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kierstynnlepperart.threadless.com
- Instagram: kierstynnlepperart
- Facebook: Kierstynn Lepper Art
- Other: [email protected]
Image Credits
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