Dancing in the Dark

Kathy OConner, United States

Starting with traditional art instruction at the American Academy of Art, Chicago, Kathy OConner developed a passion for creating expressive works. The Academy promoted a very disciplined, conservative art practice, which gave her a strong basis in drawing, composition and color theory. Exploring intuitive art with Aviva Gold in Painting from the Source workshops OConner discovered a new way of expression through intuitive art. This was an exciting merging of representational and abstract concepts. From this work she developed her own workshop for children and adults, Paint Like Crazy. These intuitive art sessions allowed adults and children to paint from their own feelings and subconscious associations. A marvelous stress reliever without the pressure of creating something “good.” The Lakewood Cultural Center in Colorado Her current practice includes abstract works in acrylic and mixed media. Her life experience provides a wealth of inspiration to express the emotions of living a full life. Love and loss, grief, anxiety, and joy—-for herself and others. I In 2023, 40 West Arts District, Lakewood, Colorado, awarded OConner one of 2 Artists in Residencies with a full time studio with exhibition and community outreach opportunities.During this period she conducted community art workshops; provided Art for Anxiety sessions for the homeless, and exhibited locally and out-of-state. In addition OConner helped launch Genesis Gallery at Lakewood United Methodist Church, including redesigning a tired meeting room into exhibit space, curating shows, social media and marketing. OConner’s mission now: to capture those emotions which cannot be defined by representational art, while creating a community of support and connection for those with basic needs. She finds great joy in collaborating with non-profits to fundraise through art sales.