I am thrilled to introduce to the the latest Artist Spotlight Series feature.  This immensely talented artist can manipulate and conquer multiple mediums with her creativity.  

I am madly in love with her geometric paintings that are so delightfully reminiscent of the Memphis Movement.

Enjoy getting to know

Kristin Gaudio Endsley

Washington, DC

What is your training? 

I studied Fashion Design and Illustration at Virginia Tech University.  I took several courses in Fine Art there…more then I needed for a Fashion Degree.   When I moved to London I surrounded myself with art students, and became involved in the “art scene”.  I was curating shows and open studios.  It was the best education, a lot of experimenting and discussions with other artists…that is when I decided to become a full time artist. 

 

What inspires you and your designs?

 Many things!  Some of which are buried deep in my subconscious…a memory, a feeling, a city, a trip… My work begins as a process based method.  I attempt to navigate what I am feeling with the process of making.  My geometrics began at a chaotic time in my life, and I wanted more control in my work. I wanted everything to be preplanned, exact, straight lines, etc.…  Where as my gestural work is more intuitive based.  Usually by something that overwhelms the senses. While living in Marrakech I made several gestural works because there was so much to see, smell, taste. The city always demanded that you be present. I recently did some geometrics that were based off of Alexander Calder’s works.  As I child my mother would take me to The National Gallery of Art in DC.   Calder has a big mobile in the East Wing.  I remember looking up and seeing those big shapes dancing over my head. 

Water is a huge inspiration…the organic movement it has in nature and on the canvas.  Being near water is always inspires me, and traveling.

What is your favorite piece? 

That is tough! A favorite…I think in each work I create there is a favorite “aspect” about it.  Can I choose one or two? Three? There is one, Italian Skies, that I completed a couple of years ago, and it has not been snatched up by a collector yet.  I keep thinking, “Kristin, just keep it for yourself!”.  It is a geometric piece based off a moment on the Italian coast near Bari.  (One night we saw the moon and it was huge, but a small star/planet was right next to it and held its own against the beautiful moon.)  I’m reminded of that trip every time I see it. 

I recently completed three gestural pieces for a local store in DC, and love them.  Oh and my palm tree paintings are all so special!  Ugh I can’t choose!

How has your area influenced your work?

The Alexander Calder pieces are directly related to me moving back to DC, and them evoking those memories of my childhood.  I grew up near Baltimore which is a laid back vibe being near the water and relying on it (a port town), but the city has some grit.  I think that is very present in my work.  A water influence with grit. 

What is your favorite restaurant in DC?

Little Pearl in Capitol Hill, Washington DC.  Wonderful easy food, in a great spot with fantastic drinks! I moved a few years ago but the first year I left for a year to travel, and then had a baby my second year, so I’m finally getting out and discovering DC.

What is your favorite cocktail?

 Bloody Mary for the mornings, 

Aperol Spritz for the afternoons (best people watching drink!), and Dirty Martini for the night.

 

How do you balance personal life and work?

 With help!  I’m so lucky that I have family nearby that helps when I need to go into the studio and a fantastic nanny.  I dedicate 3 days to studio time and 2 days with my daughter.  My husband is a pilot so it’s tough to keep a consistent schedule, but we try.   We make sure to have at least one “family” day a week.

 

Dream trip? 

Safari in Africa and end in the Seychelles

Dream commission?

It would be wonderful to do something for Kelly Wearstler.  I love the risks she takes in design…maybe some fabulous hotel she designs on a Caribbean Island.

Your favorite host / hostess gift to give?

I love to give my handmade ceramics, Tin Tin’s Pieces,

or Whisked Cookies from DC because they are incredible!

Who is your style icon?

I love Isabel Marant. Every time I see a picture of her she is chic with an edge, and a big smile on her face that is infectious.

On the flip side I love the Olsen twins as well.  Garance Dore never goes wrong! Diana Vreeland is fantastic!

Your favorite up and coming artist?

Logan Ledford based in New Orleans.  I love her play with texture. 

Michelle Nguyen paintings are stunning…the kind you can stare at for days and see something new.  They are thought provoking and dreamlike.  Love.

What is your most treasured possession?

My daughter, but not sure if she is a possession(?).  My engagement ring…it has a wonderful long story behind it. 

What are you reading?

Little Fires Everywhere.  I LOVE a good fiction story…

The Goldfinch is my favorite.

What are you listening to?

Tons of podcasts…it makes studio life so much better.  Not as lonely!   Marc Maron WTF,

GOOP, Girl Boss, Anna Faris Unqualified,

and lots Sylvan Esso for music.

What are your favorite blogs / publications?

Architectural Digest is probably my favorite.  They not only showcase gorgeous design but wonderful visual artists…especially ceramic artists!  

Atelier Dore and Habitually Chic are my go to blogs, and of course The English Room!

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