The latest southern talent featured in my Artist Spotlight Series is totally finding her groove.

She has mastered the still life tablescape in a fun colorful way among other genres including happy portraits.  

Enjoy getting to know

Kate Comen

Charleston, South Carolina

What is your training? 

I’ve been into art for as long as I can remember. I was always drawing as a kid. I took all of the possible art classes in high school and started to realize that I wanted painting to be a part of my career. I studied Visual Arts at Clemson University with an emphasis in painting. I graduated from Clemson in May 2020 and about six months later, dove right in and got my first studio at Redux Contemporary Art Center in Charleston.

What inspires you and your designs?

I find a lot of inspiration in my surroundings. When I see a color, or color combination in clothing, buildings, or really, anywhere, I take a mental note that I want to use those colors in a painting.

What is your favorite piece? 

One of my most recent ones, “Sweet Summertime” – been trying to allow myself to embrace imperfection even more. Loosening up- I feel like I really let go more in this piece. I also love the colors.

How has the your area influenced your work?

My area influences me a lot. Charleston and the artists here show me that I am capable of making a life out of this. I have a studio at Redux in Charleston, so being surrounded by so many other artists is really cool.

What is your favorite restaurant in Charleston?

Santi’s! Anyone who knows me knows that I’m obsessed with this hole in the wall Mexican restaurant.

What is your favorite cocktail?

My go-to is always a margarita.

How do you balance personal life and work?

I usually go to my studio 4-5 times a week.  I try to not force myself to paint if I don’t necessarily feel like it. Some days I just do my own thing, and others I’m in the studio for most of the day. Luckily, I tend to paint kind of quickly, so it doesn’t always take up my whole day!

  

Dream trip?

Greece! I’ve always wanted to go.

Dream commission?

It’d be cool to have something really large-scale commissioned. Something commissioned by someone famous would also be amazing.

Your favorite host / hostess gift to give?

My go-to is a bottle of wine! I feel like you can’t go wrong there.

Who is your style icon?

Maggie Rogers – she has the coolest, most unique clothes. The outfits she wears on stage are amazing. She can pull off everythinggg!!

Your favorite up and coming artist?

Chambers Austelle does some really cool figurative pieces that I love.

I’m also loving Codie O’Connor’s work. I love the simplicity of her pieces and her warm color palette.

 What is your most treasured possession?

            My cat Leo! I don’t think I could love an animal more.

What are you reading?

 Honestly, I haven’t read in a while.

But, I’ve made it a goal to start reading more in my free time!

What are you listening to?

I’m always listening to music and finding new music. A few of my all-time favorites are Mt.Joy, Maggie Rogers, Ziggy Alberts, Foy Vance.

What are your favorite blogs / publications?

I like following Julia Berolzheimer, whose blog is Gal Meets Glam. I also love any interior design publications.

Follow Kate on her website and Instagram : @kate.comen 

See her work for sale at Charleston Artist Collective, Affordable Art of Charleston and Serena & Lily.

 

 

 

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