Kristin grew up in Billings, Montana and eventually journeyed to Tacoma, Washington to earn a B. A. in Classical Civilization/Languages with Honors at the University of Puget Sound. She currently splits her time between Washington and Montana. Post-graduation, Kristin has returned to her youthful passion for art, which has been heavily influenced by the stunning scenery of Central Montana and the plethora of fauna that call Montana home.
Texture is an integral part of Kristin's acrylic painting technique. Using palette knives, she begins by building up a thick layer of heavy acrylic gel mixed with pigment. The paint breaks naturally as the layers are built up, giving a spontaneous, organic appearance to the background. Subsequent color glazes of iridescent paint subtly emphasize the texture and unite it with the more detailed, realistic brushwork used to depict the subject of the painting.
Kristin also uses rich color schemes to convey the essence of Montana's striking beauty. Her goal is to use texture and color to create an atmospheric painting that will provoke the viewer's memories and invite the viewer to experience the unique character of Montana that John Steinbeck describes so well: "I'm in love with Montana. For other states I have admiration, respect, recognition, even some affection. But with Montana it is love. And it's difficult to analyze love when you're in it".
