Beautiful Blossoms

Kathy Anderson discusses her techniques and what inspired her to start painting florals

- Kathy Anderson

SCOTTSDALE ARTISTS’ SCHOOL: Did you always have the desire to become an artist or was this an unexpected path?

KATHY ANDERSON: When I was young, art was the only thing that really piqued my curiosity in school. Drawing was my greatest strength so when it came time for college, I decided to major in advertising art. I discovered that this area was not the path for me. As for my art career, it has been established through self-discovery, random opportunities, random circumstances—some chosen and some lucky. No matter what, I was always willing to take risks.

SAS: Can you describe the moment you sold your first painting? 

KA: The answer is that I was absolutely thrilled—a person liked my art enough to actually pay for it! My children were very little, and at that time I was working in watercolors. I used to replicate Beatrice Potter’s illustrations and change the backgrounds. I would do some local outdoor shows, and that is where my very first painting sold.

SAS: How did you become inspired to paint flowers and gardens?