Today we’d like to introduce you to Lindsay Kivi
Hi Lindsay, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My artistic journey began at a young age, fueled by a lifelong passion for drawing/painting, animals and nature. I’ve always found solace and inspiration in the creative process, and my career has evolved to reflect that.
Growing up in the 80’s, I was OBSESSED with Bob Ross. He was my very first art teacher, via PBS. Every Saturday at 2pm, I would set up my canvas and paints on a tv tray in the living room, waiting for the “Joy of Painting” to start. He taught all of us that there are no mistakes, only “happy accidents.” And with only a thirty minute time slot, Bob was so fast. He’d be completely finished with a beautiful landscape oil painting while I was still working on my sky! But I continued to practice and practice… and if I ran out of canvas, I would find rocks to paint my landscapes on.
Fast-forward to college… After receiving a degree in both Fashion Design & Art, I moved to NYC to complete an internship with Fashion Designer, Norma Kamali. It was then that I began a twenty year career in fashion, living and working in both Manhattan and Minneapolis. I chose fashion over art because I had no idea how to even begin a career as an artist back then. Working for an apparel company just made the most sense. I expected to be drawing all day but quickly discovered that was certainly not the case! Instead, I sat in front of a computer for twenty years, and by 2019, I had become extremely restless. I was craving the opportunity to work with my paint brushes again. So I started painting in my spare time (as a stress reliever), and then on a whim, I left my fashion job to pursue my passion as a fine artist full-time.
As a life-long animal lover, animals quickly became my subjects: I started painting pets for friends and would then post my work on social media. To my surprise, I began to receive a number of commissions, and before I knew it, my waitlist had stretched to over four months, at times. In the past five years, I’ve had the privilege of painting thousands of pets (including dogs, cats, guinea pigs, turtles, and bunnies, etc..) and have loved every minute of it.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There are never any smooth roads in life, and if I could give new artists any advice, I’d say: don’t wing it like I did! Create a plan and understand that even though you’re a creative, you’re still running a business. Going from employee to business owner is a very humbling experience. There is nobody there to tell you what to do or what direction to take. You most likely won’t have employees that early on, so be prepared to do everything yourself. You’re the Artist, Assistant, Content Creator, Marketing Director, Photographer, Graphic Designer, Web Designer, Email Marketer, and Accountant, to name a few. You’ll be going from a 9-5 to a 24/7.
Unfortunately, this is why so many business owners fail. They do all of the work, and when they don’t see immediate results, they quit too soon. One thing I’ve learned is that it’s an ongoing process. Especially as an artist. It takes time to really find your own style and voice. I, myself, am still exploring and evolving, and that in itself, has been a challenge. There are so many styles of art that I love, as well as, numerous subject matter. “What do I stand for?” This has been my biggest question, but also the most beautiful journey of self-discovery.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a Fine Artist and have become quite versatile and focus on a wide variety of subjects in many different styles and mediums. While pets have become a majority of my subjects, I have a love for all animals and nature, which is highlighted in my work.
With pet portraits, I’ve learned that I play an important role in preserving the memory of family pets by capturing the unique personality and spirit of a beloved animal in a forever painting. For families grieving the loss of a pet, the process of commissioning and receiving such a portrait can be deeply healing. It allows them to honor the special bond they shared, providing comfort during a difficult time. So many people rush to get rid of grief because they see it as hanging onto loss. But grief is really hanging onto love- which is why you always feel it. The painting becomes a tangible reminder of the joy, companionship, and unconditional love that their pet brought into their lives, offering healing as they navigate the emotional journey of loss. Our animals are so much more than companions; they are pure unconditional love. Pets enrich our lives in countless ways as cherished members of the family and they are so deserving to be celebrated in a forever painting.
Beyond the commercial aspect, my art serves as a form of meditation and healing. I aim to infuse my work with positive energy and inspire others to appreciate the beauty of nature and the world around them. As an advocate for animal rescue/welfare and environmental conservation, I also strive to use my art to raise awareness and support these important causes.
What are you most proud of?
There have been many notably large, as well as, smaller accomplishments along the way which makes it difficult to choose, so I’d say that I’m most proud of myself for starting five years ago. For listening to my intuition and just picking up a brush and starting. I would’ve never thought that I’d be commissioned to work on wall murals (one being an outdoor mural in the city of my high school alma mater- what an honor). My artwork is now licensed to companies all over the world, and it still blows my mind that my work is hanging in so many homes across the country. I get to do what I love, help others heal, and at the same time, give back to charities in my community through my art.
What sets you apart from others?
As an empath and natural healer, art is my way of channeling healing energy for those who need it. Acquiring meaningful art can certainly raise the vibration of your environment in several ways:
-Emotional Resonance: Art that resonates with your emotions can evoke positive feelings, creating a more uplifting atmosphere.
-Aesthetic Appeal: Visually pleasing art can enhance the overall aesthetic of a space, contributing to a sense of harmony and well-being.
-Intentional Energy: Infusing my work with specific intentions or energies, which can be felt by those who interact with the piece.
-Personal Connection: Art that holds personal significance can create a deeper connection to your surroundings, fostering a sense of peace.
Additionally, I am learning Reiki and plan to incorporate the healing energy of Reiki into my art. At this time, I’m unaware of any other artists using Reiki in their work.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Ultimately, success is a personal journey and what matters most to me is making a positive impact on others, living authentically, finding fulfillment in my work, and being happy while doing it.
Pricing:
- Framed Pet Paintings start at $400
- Unframed Pet Drawings start at $125
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lindsaykivi.com/
- Instagram: @lindsaykiviart
- Facebook: @lindsaykiviART
- Other: Pinterest @lindsaykivi_art
Image Credits
Lindsay Kivi
