BEHIND THE BOOTH
Telling Nature's Story Through Art with Katherine Abdelkerim of KGA Creative
KGA CREATIVE IS WHERE NATURE AND ART MEET TO TELL STORIES OF GROWTH, RESILIENCE, AND TRANSFORMATION. EACH HANDCRAFTED MOSS PIECE IS INSPIRED BY NATURE’S QUIET STRENGTH; ROOTED IN ORGANIC TEXTURES AND DESIGNED TO BRING A SENSE OF CALM AND CONNECTION TO ANY SPACE.
BEHIND THE BOOTH
Telling Nature's Story Through Art with Katherine Abdelkerim of KGA Creative
KGA CREATIVE IS WHERE NATURE AND ART MEET TO TELL STORIES OF GROWTH, RESILIENCE, AND TRANSFORMATION. EACH HANDCRAFTED MOSS PIECE IS INSPIRED BY NATURE’S QUIET STRENGTH; ROOTED IN ORGANIC TEXTURES AND DESIGNED TO BRING A SENSE OF CALM AND CONNECTION TO ANY SPACE.
What inspires you in your creative journey?
I’m inspired by my life experiences, people who have always been in my corner, and by the beauty in the world. Since I was a kid, art has been my way of making sense of the world. It gave a voice to my inner world when words fell short.
I’m deeply moved by resilience— my own and that of others. There’s something powerful about witnessing people grow through what they’ve endured. So, my creative process is both an act of vulnerability and truth-telling.
Nature is another constant source of inspiration for me. I see it as a masterpiece in itself, one that commands presence and reflects something far greater than us.
What’s your favorite material/source product to work with?
I love working with natural materials. You’ll see my work incorporate anything and everything from bark, preserved moss, to dried florals. I never know what I’m going to create. I just go with the flow of what I am feeling and what I’m wanting to say through my piece. I’ve been using acrylic gold paint lately as well. I truly love its boldness.
What’s one myth about being an artist/creator/maker that you want to clarify for others?
Art isn’t about technical skill or perfection; it’s about expression— of your thoughts, emotions, and perspective. If you can feel, observe, or imagine, you already have what you need to create.
Perfection is not the goal. People resonate with authenticity more than perfection. When you create honestly, others connect with the emotion behind your work, regardless of your “skill level.” I am a messy person and my creativity process is messy, in all the best ways.
My favorite thing about art is that there is no “right” way to do it. No rules or limitations.
What sets you apart as an artist?
I think what sets me apart as an artist is how much I love to mix things up. I’m not afraid to blend different styles and experiment with unexpected combinations of materials. I strive to make my art pieces feel alive and personal. What I love most is when someone sees their own story reflected in what I create—when a piece becomes not just something they want to hang on their wall, but a reminder of their own strength, growth, or sense of belonging.
Additionally, my background as a therapist and writer also shapes my creative process. I think deeply about how people connect to their environment, and I want my art to hold space for that connection. Every piece I create is intentional.
This sense of wonder drives the way I plan to grow my business—rooted in passion, adaptability, and connection.
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a long day of work?
After a long day, it really depends on my mood. Sometimes I’m all about staying in, watching a good show with my dog and 2 cats curled up next to me. Other times, I need to be out in the world which can look like catching a sunset, going to see live music, or just spending time with friends and family. I value the quiet recharge moments and also feel energized by connection. I’m pretty active as well and like working out to get that physical release.
“Art isn’t about technical skill or perfection; it’s about expression— of your thoughts, emotions, and perspective. If you can feel, observe, or imagine, you already have what you need to create.”
– Katherine Abdelkerim
How do you handle creative blocks or periods of low motivation?
I’ve needed to learn the hard way that sometimes it’s okay to rest— that resting and quitting are not the same thing. When I feel blocked or discouraged I will take a break and dabble in something different to recenter. I get back to my creative process when I feel I am ready. This has really helped me trust myself more.
What’s your approach to expanding your product line or exploring new creative directions?
My approach to expanding my product line involves a combination of ensuring I have steady finances to produce and explore different avenues creatively as well as allowing myself to wander and try something different. I also take in feedback from others and stories from others that resonate with me. Being open minded and having humility is key.
We truly enjoyed getting to know Katherine and sharing her inspiring story, along with her words of wisdom for fellow artists.