Let’s get to know Katy Dee (@shiztastic) and her bright colour palette! We asked loads of questions to get the scoop on Katy’s art practice, inspiration, and dreams. Read on to get inspired – her creativity is contagious (trust us!).
What would you say to a beginner artist who might be a little scared to take the leap into creativity?
It took me a long time to say ‘’I am an artist’’ out loud and I wish I had believed it earlier. If you create art, you are an artist. Just have a go, don’t overthink what you are painting or making, and do it for yourself without wondering what the end result is or who it is for.
What's your guilty pleasure?
Lots of things tempt me away from paints… cocktails, a good cheese board and a romcom are just a few of my weaknesses!
How did you discover your inner artist? Was it a gradual process or a surprise discovery?
I grew up in a creative, messy house. I remember making and crafting whether it was little books or paper mâché, it’s always been there. I don’t recall a time that it began because it was always there which I am so grateful for.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
My mum always said ‘’ It’s not about the winning but the taking part’’ I don’t know if I totally agree but it always made me think it’s ok just to have a go…
What’s something that you’re proud of, that you don’t often get to talk about?
Currently, I think I have the best job for me. I run a creative shop that allows me to chat all day. The shop houses local artists and makers and I am so proud of the community we have built. It’s a joy to see how people connect with handmade things and I am lucky to get to be a part of it and sell my own art at the same time!
Where do you find creative inspiration?
I know it’s predictable but honestly, I find it everywhere. I am inspired hugely by colour and love finding combinations in the strangest of places. Nature has always been a huge inspiration – flowers and the botanical world in particular as I am just amazed at its perfection.
What would your dream creative space look like?
Ooh, what a fun dream! I think it would have to be floor-to-ceiling glass on one side with concrete floors covered in rugs overlooking a dramatic valley where I could watch and paint gorgeous sunsets. I would have every craft item you could imagine and a huge table running down the middle… ah one can dream!
Do you like to plan a creative project or jump right in?
I think I do both! Some projects take planning and time and sketches and thoughts while others are more spontaneous. I enjoy both and lean into whatever feels right at the time. I often know what mood I am in and am learning to listen to my instincts.
Who inspires you the most?
There are so many wonderful, very famous artists that inspire me such as Ken Done, Julie Verhoeven, Andy Warhol, Yayoi Kusama and Fafi just to name a few. I do believe some of my nearest and dearest are just as inspiring, including my fabulous friend Therese AKA @cuppatcrafts and my first creative mentor, my mum @kazmadethis.
We don’t know about you, but we’re ready to get stuck into creating. Katy’s passion for her own art, as well as the creators she houses in her shop, calls our inner artist to come out and play!
If you feel inspired Katy’s bright and colourful spirit, why not grab some bold Acrylic Paints and DIY your own wall art? #montmarteart or tag us @montmarteart on Instagram or Facebook to show us what you come up with.
See more about @shiztastic by checking out our gallery, where her art journey is featured! To join our Creative Community, scroll to the bottom of our website and pop in your email. This will keep you up to date with more featured artists, ideas, tips, and tricks so you stay inspired and keep creating!
