Today we’d like to introduce you to Kara Henry
Hi Kara, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started my professional journey in graphic design. Fresh out of NKU I had a seat at one of the more unconventional firms in the city, a place I’d call home for 6 years.
In January of 2024, I left the world of 9-5 to pursue my dream of feeling the sun on my face and not being stuck at a desk 40 hours a week.
Since going solo, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with local clients like Queer Kentucky, the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Artworks Cincinnati, Cincinnati Asian American Heritage month, and Farmer Nates Sauce Co. Getting to pick and choose which clients I work with and getting to work personally with each client has been a gratifying change of pace.
I’ve also had a lot more time to dedicate to personal creative projects. Selling my paintings and illustrations in various markets like the Asianati Blink Night Market, Art on Vine, the Crafty Supermarket and also various smaller fairs has given me the chance to meet other local creatives and get to interact with my audience face to face (something I really value these days).
Outside of art, taking on part time roles like community manager or event coordinator for organizations like Sweetgum Manor and Climb Cincy has given me the kind of variety I always longed for in my days of being glued to a desk.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road is never completely smooth when you’re doing something new, at least not for me. Going out on my own, I’ve had to learn how to do a lot of things that normally someone like a project manager, creative director or account exec would do for me – setting timelines, determining costs, pitching clients. It’s been a journey, and I wouldn’t have made it this far without everyone who lent a helping hand along the way.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
In my personal creative work, I often explore themes of identity, nostalgia, and flavor, typically through the execution of a punchy, colorful still life. My work straddles the line between art and novelty – like post-impressionist-inspired paintings of insignificant objects such as a collection of chapsticks, supermarket sushi, or a chinese takeout container.
This body of work invites viewers to find joy in the minutia of life. In pieces like “A Ballpark Feast” and “Fun and Games” I use a smattering of objects (objects that you don’t often see portrayed in such a traditional medium- acrylic paint) to capture a special nostalgic longing many of us have for chowing down at a baseball game with the sun on our faces and/or spending a whole day playing and being a kid who doesn’t even know what taxes are yet.
Even in my client work, I maintain a use of bold color and playful graphics. As seen in the “Queer Election Kit” I designed in collaboration with Queer Kentucky and Olivia Krauth, almost all of my work follows the theme of “not taking itself too seriously”.
What sets me apart is my approach to blending traditional fine art techniques with modern, everyday subjects. I aim to create a connection between high art and popular culture. I’m especially proud of being able to offer a fresh perspective on the familiar, crafting art that hopefully resonates both visually and emotionally.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My biggest advice to those looking to network or find a mentor is to attend events! Meet people in person, markets, happy hours, etc. In this digital world, showing face makes so much of a difference.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/chunkofchina
