Kat - Artist Biography

Impressionistic and whimsical artist Kat Nordby of St. Germain invites you to experience her open studio, featuring an extensive collection of original artwork. Working across diverse media including copper, wood, clay, plaster, oils, and chalks, Kat's primary focus centers on acrylic painting, where she has developed her distinctive artistic voice.

Kat's artistic journey began remarkably early, with drawing evident from childhood. By fifth through eighth grade, she had progressed to oil painting on canvas, later transitioning to chalk pastels during high school. Her talent flourished rapidly—by her junior year, she was creating commissioned chalk portraits for clients throughout the United States. Throughout her twenties, she mastered both oil and chalk mediums before ultimately settling on acrylics, applying the refined techniques developed through years of oil painting experience. Her work spans both traditional paper and unique antique surfaces.

Her artistic repertoire encompasses a broad spectrum of subjects, from whimsical characters to deeply sensitive figures. Through masterful use of subtle coloring and rich, deep tones, Kat captures intimate details—a wisp of hair, the curve of a smile, the depth of an eye—isolating each character within a specific emotional moment. Her commitment to realism breathes lifelike movement into every figure, creating an immediate connection between viewer and subject.

Kat’s creative process is deeply personal and intuitive. Her emotions and feelings flow directly onto the canvas, with her mood—particularly when positive—infusing each piece with authentic energy. This emotional authenticity works both ways, allowing her art to reflect the full spectrum of human experience. Driven by a passion for uniqueness, she deliberately seeks challenging and unconventional subjects, drawn to the extraordinary rather than the ordinary. Each piece must present a compelling artistic challenge that pushes her creative boundaries and showcases her technical expertise.