Kathleen Smith

Emmett, Idaho | Landscape | Plein Air Hobbyist

“Art truly became my therapy and has since evolved into my passion.”

Kathleen Smith doesn’t consider herself a professional artist. She is a hobbyist who discovered painting during a difficult time in her life and found in art a positive outlet for creativity, self-care, and healing.

A nature lover with a particular appreciation for landscapes, Kathleen eventually discovered plein air painting—and her first experience came at the 2023 Eagle Plein Air Festival. Stepping into the world of plein air painting for the first time, she admits she initially felt like a “fish out of water.”

But she kept painting.

Finding Her Way Outdoors

That first Eagle Plein Air Festival opened Kathleen’s eyes to a completely new way of experiencing art. Since then, she has returned to the festival each year, using the experience to learn, improve her skills, and challenge herself as a painter.

For Kathleen, plein air painting isn’t about fame or recognition. It’s about the joy of learning something new, spending time outdoors, and connecting with other people who share a love of art.

And there has been a little recognition along the way. Kathleen has sold a painting at the Eagle Plein Air Festival every year she has participated—a meaningful accomplishment for an artist who began painting simply as a hobby.

The Joy of the Journey

Kathleen’s story is a reminder that you don’t have to be classically trained or call yourself a professional to be an artist.

Her journey began with art as a form of self-care and has grown into a passion. Each year, the Eagle Plein Air Festival gives her another opportunity to step outside her comfort zone, learn from the experience, and enjoy the friendships that have grown along the way.

She looks forward to returning this year for another fun week of painting, learning, and connecting with fellow artists.

“I am looking forward to another fun time this year.”