Hi, I’m Catherine.

I began painting during COVID as a form of relaxation. I started by watching online tutorials and studying other artists. When I was able, I began taking in-person oil painting classes at Braitman Studio in Charlotte. Later, I began taking classes at Holt Studio of Fine Art, where I am currently a student.

Prior to painting, I was an elementary school teacher, focusing on gifted and talented education. When my first child was born, I became a stay-at-home mom. I have always enjoyed creative pursuits and love decorating, gardening, flower arranging and photography. I even started a small business for floral design just before the pandemic.

I found that painting has offered me the opportunity to learn new things but also to look at the world in a new way. Not only do I now examine objects and scenery for color variations in a way I never did before, but I now also embrace the lessons of imperfection that painting teaches. The mindfulness of painting gives me a much-appreciated sense of calm.

I primarily paint landscapes, still lifes, and abstracts. Most of my paintings are oil although I do like to experiment with different mediums, like pastels and acrylics. I often choose subject matter based on the feeling I want to have or the places I want to be. My goal is often to create peaceful or serene pieces.