A few months ago our resident Jacksonville girls Chloe Wood and Emily Magevney let it slip that there was a fabulous local artist whose work we needed to see. After a peruse through her Instagram and website, a Zoom tour of her studio and a mood board that won our hearts we began counting down the days until this talented artist officially joined the Well + Wonder team. We are thrilled to finally say...Welcome, Kristin Cronic! Born and raised in Jacksonville, FL, Kristin began her art journey painting at night while serving as an officer in the United States Navy. Becoming a mother in 2016 was the impetus for changing her life’s direction, and she has dedicated herself to a regular studio practice ever since. Realistic yet loose and gestural Kristin's fresh perspective on florals and nature is a wonderful addition to the Well + Wonder collection. Her work is a gift. Kristin earned her MFA in Visual Art from Jacksonville University in 2022 and currently lives and works in Jacksonville with her husband, three children, and Doberman-Shepherd.
We are thrilled to showcase Kristin's latest series that will debut in our collection this Monday, 07/18 at 12 PM EST. But before we debut her work we stole a few minutes of her time and asked her our favorite rapid-fire questions. Kristin's answers did not disappoint! Keep reading to learn all about Kristin, her favorite art museum, and all about how to score a great bargain deal. Then, set your alarms for Monday at noon because you won't want to miss this release!
What is currently on your nightstand?
Four books I haven’t finished yet, a caddy for baby supplies, and lavender room spray from L’Occitane (it’s heavenly!!)
Who is your biggest influence as an artist and why?
My aunt is also an artist and showed me what it was like to be an artist starting from a very young age. My high school art teacher (and Marine veteran) showed me that it was possible to serve in the military and be an artist, which inspired me to apply to the U.S. Naval Academy after high school. I absolutely adore the Impressionists and Fauvist painters, and am also extremely inspired by so many artist friends in my own life!
Tell us about your childhood. What is the most memorable moment as a young person?
As an only child, I have thrived in some really silly hobbies, most notably riding a unicycle. I think it’s totally cool but my husband says I should stop telling people that at parties ;)
If you could only have one supply in your art studio, what would it be and why?
Olive green oil paint by Gamblins. I just like it.
What is your favorite room in your house? Describe it.
I love my kids rooms. Planning and decorating them has been my favorite part of pregnancy, and each room includes a curated selection of art from people I know, or people I wish I knew. They also stay really cool in the hot Florida summers!
What is your biggest score online?
Plane tickets to Europe, hands down!
What is the benefit of buying art through a collective? What do you recommend for those that are new to buying original art?
A collective is an amazing place to see curated art that refreshes frequently. It is also a wonderful way to learn about new artists! Buying art can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. My first piece of advice , after establishing your budget, is to let your intuition guide you. You don’t have to know why you like something to enjoy it! Is there a piece that makes your heart leap a little? That’s the one!
If you have the entire day to spend in an art museum, which one and why?
I have to choose just one??!? Ok, the Orangerie, which is where Claude Monet’s waterlilies live. He was the first Impressionist I fell in love with as a kid, and I’m all for the massive size of those paintings!!
What is your favorite hotel and what makes it special?
I have painted a few weddings at the Mansion on Forsyth Park in Savannah, GA, and it’s quickly become one of my favorite places to stay. The rooms are gorgeous and right down the road is an artisanal Belgian waffle spot that is a must visit!
If you were a lipstick color would you be red, pink, or clear and why?
Red brings out the best in everyone, and I hope I can be that kind of person to others.
I can never get on a plane without….
Chocolate
How did you get into the world of art?
I thought I’d stay in the Navy for a career, but when I had my daughter in 2016, I realized it was not the path for me, and I resigned. During my transition to civilian life, pregnant again with my son, my home flooded during Hurricane Irma. For many reasons, it was a challenging time, and my mental health suffered greatly. I returned to painting during that season, as it was something I had always done to keep me happy when I could before that transition. It occurred to me during that if painting was what I kept returning to, even in the some of the most challenging days, then that was what I needed to do. My husband and I made a plan and never looked back. I can’t believe it was already 5 years ago!
What do you do to relax?
Paint, walk, puzzles, go to the gym, and watch some of the “old standby” movies my husband and I see over and over again! Those movies include “Midnight in Paris” (Woody Allen), “Chef” (Jon Favreau), and “Big Night” (Stanley Tucci).
When do you get the biggest surge of inspiration?
After periods of rest and adventure. It’s my sure cure for artist block!!
Prediction for the Color of 2023?
I’d love a nice sage green or yellow ochre!
What is your idea of a date night? Dinner and a movie or dancing all night?
We don’t get to do it much, especially in the past few years, but I love to grab dinner and go to see live theatre or a comedy show.
Tell us about your favorite painting that you have created.
When I was still in the Navy, I painted a view of oaks at golden hour because I was enamored with the light. Years later, I still paint that subject. The painting hangs in our home and reminds me when I start to overthink things that my (and every) artist voice was always there.
One piece of advice for buying original art?
Fall in love. It really doesn’t matter why, if it resonates with you, you won’t regret it!
