Erin Kaya

Erin Kaya grew up in the greater Chicago area, where she was constantly drawing and painting on whatever surfaces she could find. She received her BFA from the University of Kansas and also studied at the Ringling School of Art & Design in Sarasota, Florida. Kaya’s dedicated full-time art career began ten years ago when her daughter was born. That life-changing event encouraged her to pursue her true passion: creating art using techniques influenced by her travels in Europe, Africa, and the Near East.

Kaya hopes to bring the viewer to a different place through her gridlike paintings, as if viewing the earth from an airplane high above. Although she initially chose to paint in oils, she now uses acrylic, which allows her to create 20 to 30 layers per piece. Kaya currently works with Thomas Masters Gallery and District, a modern furniture boutique, as well as individual designers in the Chicago area. Commissioned pieces are also displayed in the Golub Capital offices in both NYC and Chicago. Kaya seeks to give back to her community through her artwork: she has worked with the YMCA, and Erika’s Lighthouse, a nonprofit helping teens who struggle from depression and anxiety. Each year she donates a painting for auction giving 100% of the proceeds to Erika’s Lighthouse.

What memorable responses have you had to your work?

Answer: My most memorable responses are that the viewer wants to keep staring at the painting. Every time they look at it they see something different. Their favorite thing to do at the end of the day is to just relax and look at my art piece. The painting has a “trippy” effect - how did you do that? It’s amazing! Compliments never get old and I appreciate every single one. I have put my soul into each piece of work and am thankful to be making people happy with the work I do.

What are common misconceptions about your job?

Answer: The most common misconception about me being an artist is that I don’t really do anything. I don’t have a “real” job. I just paint sometimes. It is so easy. I have learned over the years to ignore the ignorance of people that don’t know what goes into being an artist. I believe in myself and my process and know that hard work and determination are what lead me to where I am now.

What is the most creative thing you have done?

Answer: I’ve done a few random crazy creative projects! While I was traveling in Turkey in 2007 I painted a huge adventure bus. The painting was abstract with animals and the activities they sold (treking, climbing, diving, etc.) I painted this bus and signs as my job to stay at for free at the hotel.

What superpower would you like to have and why?

Answer: I would love the power to turn into a mermaid. I love everything about the water! Swimming makes me feel calm yet powerful. Gliding through the water is where I am free.

Website: https://www.artbyerinkaya.com