Today we’d like to introduce you to Kenzie Wolk
Hi Kenzie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always been creative, but never really considered myself an artist. My grandmother was a self-taught artist who introduced me to art during our time together. And my parents are creative do-it-yourself types. Growing up surrounded by talented family members, I often felt inferior and shied away from art classes in high school. It wasn’t until college, when I took a drawing class, that I realized I had a natural ability for creation. I painted portraits and other canvas works but soon discovered my passion for larger wall murals—starting small with bedrooms and gradually working up to businesses and giant outdoor walls. Painting live in public spaces was intimidating at first, but now it’s like a performance.
Today, much of my mural work comes through word of mouth and social media.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s been nothing but trial and error. The art world can sometimes be so secretive, and artists are often so focused on advancing their own careers that they don’t always have time to nurture new artists. So, I practiced. Every wall poses a new challenge I’ve never encountered before: taller, wider, old bricks, virgin stucco, sloped ground below the wall, a narrow sidewalk that doesn’t allow for a scissor lift, a wall directly over the entrance to a business with customers constantly walking underneath me… the list goes on. Just when I think I’ve got this career figured out, a new wall presents new obstacles. I’m constantly problem-solving. Thankfully, my brain loves problem-solving.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a mural artist for hire, and my client base currently consists mostly of businesses, city beautification groups, and schools. I’ve painted for Amazon, Makers Mark, and Starbucks to name a few. They approach me with a blank wall, and I design artwork that enhances their space. I bring light and color to otherwise ordinary spaces. I much prefer working on these murals over private home commissions or hanging work in an art gallery. The average person can feel uncomfortable or unsure about entering an art gallery since they can be intimidating. So why hang my work in a gallery where only a few might see it, when I could paint in the town square for everyone to enjoy?
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
My business is a one-woman show, and I’m constantly balancing work and family. I want to continue growing both the size of my murals and the companies I collaborate with, but I won’t let it take me away from my family to the point where I begin to regret the loss of quality time.
I would love to travel to interesting places for mural work, and if I could get at least one international mural under my belt, that would be perfect.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kenzietheartist.com
- Instagram: @kenzie.wolk.art
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/artbykenziewolk
