The name Kristina Akers has been in our art-filled zeitgeist for a while now. And it was after our dear friend Sarah Ella Cole made our introduction to Kristina that we knew Kristina simply had to join the Well + Wonder ranks. Tomorrow we will launch Kristina’s latest collection of abstract paintings on our site but before we do allow us to share a bit more about this Franklin, Tennessee artist. Kristina is a mom of three who had a career in the invitation design business before she became a full time artist. Her paintings while abstract in nature are a wonderful balance of color and texture. Soothing and bright. Lively and balanced. Kristina says the most fulfilling part of her job is when one of her creations finds a new home and we can’t wait to see where these new pieces end up tomorrow! Until then, continue reading Kristina's answers to our rapid-fire questions below.
What is currently on your nightstand?
Always a rotating stack of novels, usually those recommended by Reese’s Bookclub, ha. But constants are Big Magic by Liz Gilbert for inspiration and Ceremony by Briana Weist for meditation.
Who is your biggest influence as an artist and why?
Oh I don't think I’m able to pick one! As for classics, the color palettes and impressionism of Matisse probably first inspired me to fall in love with art. But now I follow and keep up with so many current and modern artists and designers via social media that I’m influenced daily!
Tell us about your childhood. What is the most memorable moment as a young person?
I grew up in a small Texas town with a tight knit community. My favorite memories from childhood are mostly spending time outdoors. My family loved hunting, fishing, and going to the lake (although my version of “outdoorsy” was more like picking flowers and daydreaming.)
If you could only have one supply in your art studio, what would it be and why?
Assuming I could still have paint…. I’ll pick a palette knife.I love texture!
What is your favorite room in your house? Describe it.
Our living room. My husband and I have 3 kids and this is where we all get to hang together in the same place most often.
What is the benefit of buying art through a collective? What do you recommend for those that are new to buying original art?
When shopping a collective, you not only support an independent artist/business owner, but a whole network of them! Its so valuable for creatives to have a community of like minds to cheer for each other since most of our work is created alone. When buying art, don’t get hung up on matching colors or decor… invest in what speaks to you and the spaces will continue to show up no matter the trends.
If you have the entire day to spend in an art museum, which one and why?
Oh there’s no way I could choose, there are so many I want to visit! However, the local art museum in the town I grew up in will always hold the most nostalgia and sentiment to me. I loved going there on field trips each year and enjoying the children’s floor on summer days. If you find yourself in Abilene, Texas- The Grace Museum is worth your stop!
If you were a lipstick color would you be red, pink, or clear and why?
All 3? I have days and moods for each!
I can never get on a plane without….
lip gloss, hand sanitizer, facial mist, a book, and probably an overstuffed carry-on full of the things I had to remove from my checked luggage since I exceeded the weight limit…..
How did you get into the world of art?
After becoming a mom I just doing stationery and graphic design for invitations and parties, it all just evolved until I realized that my favorite part of the process was the time spent illustration or painting something off-screen. So I took the leap to keep creating like that and doors continued to open.
What do you do to relax?
A hot bath! Give me all the salts and scrubs and fancy things to go with it too.
When do you get the biggest surge of inspiration?
When I’m feeling rested and not spread too thin. I love this job because it allows me to create the time I want and need with my family as each season changes and when I feel the most balanced I tend to have the best ideas.
Prediction for the Color of 2023?
Pear! I think a bright yellow-green/chartreuse looks great with any combination but its (understandably) intimidating. I love when I have clients who want to use shades of yellow!
What is your idea of a date night? Dinner and a movie or dancing all night?
With our busy life lately, dinner and a movie always sounds perfect. But, if you can get me on the dance floor I’ll never leave!
Tell us about your favorite painting that you have created.
While I would probably change everything about it today (compositionally)….the first painting I ever sold was 4 foot abstract at a home interior shop in Nashville because the owner was kind enough to see potential in my hobby and encouraged me to bring her some pieces to sell. She priced and styled and sold all of the work I brought to her and I was so overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. Had it not been for that experience, I may have never mustered enough courage to put it out there.
