When I was five, I told my mother I wanted to be an artist when I grew up. Of course, I already was! I have been an artist my whole life. Starting with “Special Art” in kindergarten, and continuing through stained glass, drawing and painting lessons, I finished my course of study at Bard College, where I received a Bachelor’s of Arts in painting. I have always loved painting, especially oil painting, but I also paint with acrylics, ink and watercolor.

I first learned silk painting on my honeymoon at Club Med. I painted 2 large silk squares, which I later made into pillows. Eventually, the pillows wore out and for our 10th anniversary a few years ago, I decided to paint replacement pillows. I read Caroline Earl’s book ‘Beginner’s Guide to Silk Painting’ and ordered a beginner’s silk painting kit from Dharma trading. The pillows were a big hit, and I loved the process. After the birth of my second child, I realized I would have to take a break from oil painting, and I started experimenting more with silk painting. I enjoy the freedom of painting on silk, a totally different experience from painting in oil. I get the inspiration for my hand-painted silks from many sources, including my tropical surroundings, the holidays, and modern art.

I get all of my supplies from Dharma, including habotai silk scarves, neckties and pillow covers; water soluble resist; Jacquard Dye-na-Flow paints, gold and black water soluble resists by Pebeo, and salts. My silk painting can be seen at www.kjmSILKS.etsy.com and my original drawings, paintings and ACEOs can be seen at www.kjmART.etsy.com.

Kim Moore
Coral Gables, Florida