Newsroom

Bringing Color to Life
Jun 22, 2016

When Kathy Walker, Financial Analyst, moved to St. Joseph eight years ago with her husband, she immediately took an interest in the public art displays on the bluff.

For each of the past six years, Kathy has designed a sculpture for City of St. Joseph Public Art, the exhibit behind this year's "Beach Bugs" and other annual themed sculpture displays on the bluff.

"I enjoy art because of the inspiration it gives to people," said Kathy. "Art is bringing color to life. It puts smiles on faces, and I love seeing people's reactions to my work."

Having painted cartoon characters on her children's walls as they were growing up, Kathy draws her inspiration from the excitement and joy of kids, especially her two young grandchildren.

"Children really inspire me, and I try to capture what excites and interests them," said Kathy. "A few years ago, I was working on a helicopter painted with the solar system, and my grandson would come over and ride on it. When it was finished, we took him downtown, and he touched it and said 'this is Nana's.' That moment made me really proud."

Kathy also participates in the annual Chalk the Block event on the bluff, where she creates alongside her 16-year-old great niece, who she continually encourages to follow her same passion for art.

"Your passion doesn't necessarily always line up with your family or your career," said Kathy. "But your passion is who you are, and it's important to always keep it with you and make it shine."