Hi, I’m Kathleen and I love tearing up my art!

Shocking statement to make, but it’s true. Here’s the extra fun part, I also love re-assembling it to create playful and unique art. Whether I am creating my original works on wood panels or a smaller scale for stationery the process is the same, I tear up my paintings on paper and layer them to create colourful whimsical designs.

Why tear up art?

The tearing process is less destructive and more therapeutic. I create complete abstract paintings on paper knowing I will rip them up, so I don’t attach myself to those works on paper. Tearing paper for me is like Alice In Wonderland going down the rabbit hole. I lose myself in the process, and I love the adventure it takes me on. The freedom that comes with each tear and then finding a new design for how the torn abstract pieces show up. The building of texture using the torn paper, sometimes the back side of the abstracts to give just a hint of colour creates some mystery.

Roll of drywall tape on a colourful abstract background

The addition of drywall tape in my art is symbolic of our mental health and how sometimes we all need to be taped back together. We all go through tough times and sometimes we just need a little bit of help to keep moving forward. Masking tape does exactly what it says, it masks, but with drywall tape, there are holes to allow us to breathe and provide a little texture to our stories which help build the layers of who we are as humans.

When I’m not immersed in creating art, I enjoy walking my dogs and spending quality time with my family and friends in beautiful Coquitlam, British Columbia Canada.

When you purchase my art, it is an extension of me and my adventure through life.

I believe beauty exists in all forms, finding grace in the imperfect. To me, the torn edges of life, much like torn paper, hold their own unique and captivating beauty.

…exhibitions:

  • River Market, New Westminster BC May-June 2025

  • Whistler Arts Anonymous Art Show 2024

  • Langley Arts Council “Point Of View” Exhibition 2023/24

  • North Van Arts Anonymous Art Show 2023

  • Coquitlam Library Juried Art Exhibition 2023

  • Art4Life Exhibition PoMo Arts 2023

  • FRESH: an online group exhibition 2021

  • Places des Arts Positively Petites Exhibition 2021

  • Commissioned to create an original piece for the Coquitlam Heritage Museum, Capturing Moments: Chronicling Our Lives Exhibit 2020

  • Make It Vancouver 2012-2015

  • Creative Finds 2011

  • Crafty Affaire 2011

  • Port Moody Art Walk 2010

  • North Van Arts - Anonymous Art Show 2009

Abstract paintings displayed on a gallery wall, featuring vibrant colors and textured patterns.