About the Artist

Katie Willes is an emerging artist known for her intuitive, expressive paintings. A lifelong art lover, Katie discovered her passion for creating vibrant, colorful works in her 40s—a turning point that inspired her to pursue art professionally. Her bold leap into exhibiting her work quickly grew into a dedicated artistic career.

Entirely self-taught, Katie embraces a process-driven approach, allowing her unconscious mind to guide each piece. Decades of mindfulness practice and a keen sense of color and design inform her work, resulting in art that transforms chaos into calm—mirroring her own personality and journey.

Katie’s creative vision is deeply shaped by her extensive travels. From a childhood spent wandering to a nomadic early adulthood, she found her art education in the world’s great museums. Inspiration flows from the calligraphic scripts of the Middle East, the intricate mosaics of Sicily, and the vibrant patterns of urban skylines and street art. These global influences feed her imagination and infuse her paintings with a sense of wonder and discovery.

Now based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Katie draws daily inspiration from the region’s dramatic landscapes and ever-changing light. The interplay of mountains, desert, and sky finds its way into her work through earthy palettes, organic forms, and a sense of spaciousness. Living close to nature has deepened her appreciation for subtle patterns and quiet moments, which she weaves into each piece—inviting viewers to pause, reflect, and find beauty in the ordinary.