What type of art do you create?
While I like all kinds of crafts, I mainly work with stained glass and mosaics. My mosaics are made with glass scraps left over from my stained glass projects.
Where can your art be found?
I sell my art primarily through the Artist Gallery in Carlsbad and at craft fairs. I participate in Art in the Park every October in Artesia and several events throughout the year at the Artesia Senior Center.
How long have you been an artist?
I have been doing stained glass for about six years. Jeanice Crnich taught me in Carlsbad and convinced me to take some of my work to the Artist Gallery to see about becoming a member.
What motivates you to create, and where do you find inspiration?
I love all of the steps in creating my art, but my favorite part is looking through the glass and picking out colors. Most of my inspiration comes from nature. I like to do butterflies, flowers, turtles, etc.
Describe your ideal working environment.
I have a small studio set up in a spare bedroom, but my ideal working environment is my own private “she-shed” with lots of room.
What is one of your favorite creations?
The 3D American Eagle for a Medal of Honor winner who lost an arm in Vietnam was one of my favorite projects. He saw a picture of the eagle in New Mexico Magazine and called me to commission one. He then sent me a Medal of Honor coin and a signed book called Giant Killers with his picture on the front.
What words of encouragement do you have for aspiring artists?
If you have a true passion for any art medium, don’t be afraid to put it out there. We are always our own worst critic.
What else would you like to share with our community?
Please consider buying from local artists. You will have a unique item that was created with blood, sweat, tears, and love.
Artist feature originally published in Focus on Carlsbad 2024 Summer edition.
Kathy Howard
I have been doing stained glass for about 6 years. I also enjoy quilting, crochet, and cross stitch. I have lived in southeast New Mexico all my life and in Artesia for over 45 years. I worked as an executive assistant for a drilling company and retired in 2018. I am married and have 2 children, 4 grands, and 1 great.
