Kathleen Rietz: Transforming Passion into Art

EVOKED | The Artist Focused Podcast

Kathleen Rietz is an artist who embodies the essence of creativity and determination. Born and raised in Peoria, Illinois, Kathleen’s love for nature and art developed early, largely influenced by the slower pace of life and the natural surroundings of her hometown. Her passion for art was nurtured by her mother, who recognized Kathleen’s inclination toward creativity and encouraged her to explore it fully. Even as a child, Kathleen found solace in painting and drawing, preferring these activities over more conventional pastimes.

When Kathleen was 14, her family moved to Chicago, a city that would later become a significant influence on her artistic journey. The transition from rural Peoria to the vibrant cultural landscape of Chicago opened new doors for Kathleen. Visits to the Art Institute and the city's artistic community helped shape her understanding and appreciation of art, leading her to pursue formal education in the field.

However, Kathleen’s path to becoming a full-time artist was not without its challenges. After completing her studies, she entered the corporate world, where she spent over 30 years working in commercial art and product development. Despite her success in the corporate sector, Kathleen never lost sight of her passion for fine art. She continued to paint on the side, honing her craft and slowly building a reputation for herself in the art world.

Kathleen’s decision to leave her corporate job and pursue art full-time was spurred by a deeply personal experience. Her sister’s battle with breast cancer served as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of pursuing one’s true passions. Realizing that time is precious, Kathleen took the bold step of resigning from her stable job to focus on her art and spend more time with her sister. It was a risky move, but one that Kathleen has never regretted.

Her first year as a full-time artist was marked by moments of uncertainty and self-doubt. Kathleen faced the typical challenges of any entrepreneur—financial instability, fear of failure, and the pressure to succeed. Yet, she persisted, driven by her passion and the belief that her art could make a difference. “You can sit there and complain about it, or you can learn to change,” Kathleen says, reflecting on the lessons she has learned along the way.

Kathleen’s art is deeply personal, often reflecting her love of nature and her experiences growing up in Illinois. Her work is characterized by its vibrant colors and intricate details, which draw the viewer into her world. Over the years, her paintings have garnered significant attention, and she has successfully transitioned from corporate life to becoming a respected figure in the art community.

In addition to her painting, Kathleen has also ventured into design, creating a line of silk scarves that feature her artwork. This endeavor, which began while she was still working in the corporate world, has become another outlet for her creativity and a way to bring her art to a broader audience. Kathleen’s ability to blend her artistic talents with her business acumen has been key to her success.

Kathleen’s story is one of resilience and adaptability. She has learned to see every obstacle as an opportunity, a chance to grow and evolve both personally and professionally. “What can I do in this moment that’s going to take me to the next place in life and in my career?” she asks, a question that has guided her through the ups and downs of her journey.

Now, Kathleen is focused on sharing her knowledge and experience with others. She is passionate about teaching, particularly young people, and is eager to give back to the community that has supported her. Whether through online art courses or in-person workshops, Kathleen hopes to inspire the next generation of artists to pursue their dreams with the same determination and passion that has driven her.

Kathleen Rietz’s story is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the impact that art can have on both the artist and the world around them. Through her work, Kathleen continues to create beauty, inspire others, and leave a lasting legacy in the world of art.