Meet Kristin Thorsen | Fine Artist

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

Hi Kristin, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned over the years is that you have to be able to adapt quickly when something isn’t working. Being able to self evaluate constantly keeps you and your business on track. Ditch the things that aren’t helping and a waste of time and establish what works and why.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been a creative little soul since I was able to hold a crayon. My mother covered the cabinets in paper so I could express myself (and to get me to stop drawing on the walls). Being raised by an artist has allowed me to see the world in a different light. Initially, I resisted following in my mothers path as an artist because I wanted to carve my own way. Later on, I realized there was no other career that would make my heart and soul content.
After accepting a grant to study painting in Finland, I got accepted to Atlanta College of Art and graduated, magna cum laude. I participated in many group shows and some solo exhibits. I always worked as a server or bartender because gallery shows weren’t paying the bills.
I got married and had my daughter in 2010 and life really changed. I discovered that being a sleep deprived new mom made everything else seem impossible. I had to make time in the studio. When my husband got laid off, I called a local art festival and they let me show last minute. I was able to sell at local art fairs and pay the bills. Later, I traveled out of state and have now built up clients all over the nation. It wasn’t easy, it still isn’t. Driving 10 hours and then setting up a huge tent to show my work outdoors for 3 days is a difficult job. I’ve been in severe weather and very dangerous situations. But at the end of the day, I am able to express myself through paint and share that experience with people.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would have to start in my old neighborhood, East Atlanta Village. SoBa has the best food and atmosphere. Then off to Little 5 Points for pizza and people watching. Then off to my current neighborhood, Decatur. Kindred has incredible filets and drinks. We would grab Korean Bbq tacos then go to Brick Store Pub for a beer and chill on the square. I always love hanging out in Piedmont park, stop by Sean’s Heart of the Park for a smoothie and sandwich. Then hop on a scooter and check out the belt line. For galleries and art I would hit Miami circle, Westside and Castleburry Hill.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I don’t believe that I would be a working fine artists if it weren’t for the support from my parents. They have both encouraged me to do what I love and offered unlimited guidance, emotional support and financial aid. I wouldn’t be anywhere near my success in my career without them.

Website: https://thorsenart.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thorsenart/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063714214024

Image Credits
Kristin Thorsen