Kimmie Gillespie, an Ohio native who found her creative haven in Houston, is a force to be reckoned with in the art world. Since her move to Texas in 2012, she has seamlessly woven her midwestern roots with the vibrant culture of Houston, creating a body of work that resonates deeply with both locals and art enthusiasts everywhere. Her evolution from small-town girl to a celebrated abstract artist is as colorful and dynamic as her paintings.
One of Kimmie’s most iconic works is her abstract map of Houston, a piece that beautifully captures the essence of the city’s inner and outer loops. It's more than just a map; it’s a puzzle, inviting viewers to gaze deeply and discover the familiar within the abstract. This approach encapsulates Kimmie’s artistic philosophy—art should be an experience, a conversation starter, and a source of endless curiosity.
Kimmie's medium of choice is acrylic paint, often mixed with modeling paste to add texture and depth. This combination brings her abstract maps to life, creating pieces that are not just visually striking but also tactilely engaging. Her process is as intriguing as the final product, involving layers of paint and paste that build upon each other, much like the layers of stories and memories associated with the locations she depicts.
What sets Kimmie apart is her commitment to custom pieces. She believes every place holds a unique story, whether it’s a beloved hometown, a memorable vacation spot, or the city where one found love. By commissioning Kimmie to create a custom abstract map, you’re not just getting a piece of art; you’re capturing a part of your personal history, a cherished memory immortalized on canvas. These pieces are designed to be more than just wall art; they’re conversation pieces that resonate with personal significance.
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Her work isn’t limited to canvases, either. Kimmie excels in creating murals that transform spaces, from homes and offices to unique creative spaces. Her art, while universally appealing, brings a sophisticated and cool touch to any environment. Imagine walking into a room and being greeted by a mural that perfectly encapsulates your personality or brand—this is the magic Kimmie brings to life.
Whether you’re looking to commission a piece that captures the essence of a special location or want to transform a bland wall into a work of art, Kimmie’s portfolio offers something for everyone. Prints of her original works provide an affordable way to bring her art into your home, making it accessible for those who appreciate beauty but are on a budget. And for those ready to make a bold statement, her murals offer endless possibilities, tailored to fit any space and any vision.
Kimmie's artistic journey started at a young age, with a crayon (or "crown" as she adorably called it) in hand. Her teachers predicted she would grow up to design illustrations, and they were spot on. Today, her work includes not just paintings and murals but also children's books, commissioned pieces, marketing materials, and even whimsical doodles during meetings. Her diverse portfolio can be explored on her website, kimmiedesigns.com, where each piece tells a story of passion, creativity, and a love for art that has only grown stronger with time.
In essence, Kimmie’s art is a celebration of place and memory, a bridge between the personal and the universal. Her work invites us to see the familiar in new ways, to find beauty in the abstract, and to cherish the stories that make each location special. Through her vibrant, textured paintings and murals, she transforms spaces and hearts, one brushstroke at a time.
Find Kimmie's art at https://kimmiedesigns.com.
Photos provided courtesy of Kimmie Gillespie
