Meet Kat Houseman | Fine Artist specializing in Wildlife and Landscapes

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kat Houseman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kat, why did you pursue a creative career?
I was fortunate to grow up in Montana and have family that encouraged and support the idea of fine art as a career. My mother and grandmother dabbled in the arts and both sets of grandparents collected art.

I always loved to draw and paint and my earliest memories are those of checking out “how to Draw”
Books from the library and buying them at book fairs.

In Great Falls Montana every March is The CM Russell art auction and sale – hundreds of professional artists descend on the town to participate in shows, quick draws and auctions. Being exposed to this yearly event solidified the idea that art could be a career – and I have actively pursued that for 20 years.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My work has always had a strong focus on the natural world. I have forever been in awe of the animal kingdom and most recently have started to focus on the landscapes around me. Over the years i have tried pastels, acrylic, and clay, however it is the consistency of oils that have my heart. I consider myself a bit of a purist and only produce original paintings at a variety of price points so that everyone can have an original piece of art in their home! I want people to see the brushstrokes and work involved in creating a painting. Art is not the easiest career path although there are so many ways and avenues you can take it!! I started out showing at Coffee shops and restaurants and then moved on to Fine Art Festivals – the ones that you set up a booth, work it, and travel on to the next one… I spent about 10 years doing the festival shows but they are taxing and the overhead cost can be an issue. After that I chose to pursue gallery representation. I am so fortunate to have representation in Washington state and throughout Montana as well…. The gallery scene is perfect for me and allows so much more time in the studio!! As well as Social Media – the easy direct way to bring your art into peoples homes.. I have developed so many unique friendships with clients through social media and an easy way to sell direct.
The biggest challenge as an artist is to not give up and have patience…. And a bit of a thick skin… one of my college professors said “Have a shoe box for your acceptance letters and a refrigerator box for your rejection letters” And I think of this advice every time I apply to a juried show or reach out to a new gallery.
Enjoy the small victories and be true to yourself…

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
So I am currently in Bellingham WA.. the PNW is stunning. Coffee is a big thing in the grey overcast area – so I would start the day with a coffee from
Cafe Velo – great little cafe and bike repair place in Downtown.
Then a visit to the Whatcom Art Museum and the local shops including
Brazen – a fabulous local handmade women owned shop.
A nice walk around Beautiful Lake Padden followed by lunch at Structures Brewing a perfect place for drive in style burgers and local brews.
Then a scenic trip down Chuckanut Drive – overlooking the bay and San Juan islands.
Ending up in Edison WA – a tiny town with galleries including Smith and Vallee Gallery.
Then for a late dinner – D’Anna’s Cafe Italiano – a fabulous long standing establishment with the most delicious food all prepared in-house.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to give a shoutout to my husband Corey Urlacher – Also an artist. We have been together for 22 years – while I was an artist when I first met him, he has continued to support me through all these years and the ups and downs that a creative life can have.
He never once has questioned my ability to pursue my dreams and for that I am ever so grateful.

Website: Kathouseman.com

Instagram: @kathleenkatykat

Facebook: Kat Houseman