Kristen is theabstractartist

Kristen Stephen uses a messy, beautiful process to create abstract ink paintings on canvas.

Hi! I’m a left handed brown eyed painter that uses inks on canvas to make large abstract paintings.

Creativity is an obsession for me. I’ve dedicated most of my life to pursuing art. I came to culminate my painting technique at OCADU. I dye the canvas with India Inks, stretch it wet over a stretcher then finish it with different colours of inks or oils. It is an intuitive process. It’s messy and beautiful.

In your opinion, what makes someone 'a creative'?

I feel like creatives have a tick or a voice that makes them create. I have no idea why I make inky abstract paintings but I know I have to. Translating one’s ideas into something tangible.

If you could do one thing, with a guarantee that you would not fail, what would that be?

Fly a plane or operate a hot air balloon. So fun!

What is your most treasured memory so far?

In regards to art I believe it is when I finally figured out my painting style. I tried so many different techniques to finally end up with ink abstract paintings.

What do you love most about what you do as a creative?

The 'whimsical' nature and schedule of an artist. We have a lot of freedom.

What have you never understood?

Not being a creative. I feel so lucky to have an outlet for my inner voice.

"Creativity is an obsession for me. I’ve dedicated most of my life to pursuing art."

What talent do you yearn for?

I wish I could be more meticulous.

What brings you joy at the moment?

Dogs, flowers and riding my bike around the city. Also, completing a painting that turns out well.

What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?

“Keep going” “Keep painting”! It’s very hard to deal with rejection but I’ve learned to keep applying and going until things work out.

" I have no idea why I make inky abstract paintings but I know I have to."

Who is inspiring you
right now?

Katarina Holbrough
@katarina.holbrough

She is currently at OCADU and I love her paintings. Katarina is on the rise and I can't wait to see where she goes in the future in her curatorial studies.

She is currently at OCADU and I love her paintings. Katarina is on the rise and I can't wait to see where she goes in the future in her curatorial studies.

Kate Crothers Little
@katecrothersdesign

Kate is a badass design queen! She has 4 children and lives in the country but happens to get it all done. Her eye and vision for projects is quite impressive. I'm always on the lookout for what she's up to. Kate is very inspirational!

Kate is a badass design queen! She has 4 children and lives in the country but happens to get it all done. Her eye and vision for projects is quite impressive. I'm always on the lookout for what she's up to. Kate is very inspirational!

Yaelly
@_yaelly

I really like her illustrations and that she customizes her work for each client. It seems to make the client's event sweet and special.

I really like her illustrations and that she customizes her work for each client. It seems to make the client's event sweet and special.

Sobo Artz
@soboartz

We've never met but we are both very supportive on instagram of each other's work. I love her colourful paintings. She seems very driven and I hope the best things for her.

We've never met but we are both very supportive on instagram of each other's work. I love her colourful paintings. She seems very driven and I hope the best things for her.

What are you loving right now?

up next