Meet Kristy Kurjan | Intuitive Abstract Artist, Children’s Book Author, and Owner of KPO Creative LLC

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kristy Kurjan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kristy, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My business, KPO Creative, encompasses the word “creative” and that is exactly why I started my own business. I wanted a place to be my out-of-the-box creative self. Whether it be through large scale abstract paintings, fun accessories, baby board books, or photography, for me, KPO Creative has been my avenue to creative adventures!

I have always been driven by creating. As a child, I created and sold numerous items based on my internal passion for making products that others could enjoy. One of my first small businesses was back in the 80’s I made my first $100 by sewing scraps of fabric into scrunchies. Into adulthood I continued creating in various forms. I have created content for multiple magazines, produced unique goods, and written four original children’s board books. My abstract artwork can be found in private collections in multiple states. Today, I am an intuitive abstract artist, spending my time painting artwork inspired by Northern Michigan, nature, and a meditative mindset. I often incorporate nature into my artwork as I strive to convey emotion onto the canvas with color and texture.

Creating a better world starts at home. I like to think that even though I am not a huge corporation I can still make a difference. Throughout the years, I have donate portions of my profits towards local charities as well as donating items to local charity auctions. My large abstract paintings are often based on zen concepts of serenity and meditation, so if I can bring even a moment of joy to others through my artwork I am contributing towards a better world.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As an intuitive abstract artist, I am inspired by nature, textures, and the extensive beauty of northern Michigan. My passion lies in the process of creating art that evokes emotion and brings joy to others. Water, landscapes, and organic beauty are often depicted in my paintings. I specialize in large scale paintings however my company, KPO Creative llc based out of Traverse City, Michigan, encompasses many other creative endeavors. In addition to my intuitive art, I have authored and published four books and written for numerous publications. My board book titles include: I Spy… A Pig in A Plane, Nap-a-Roo, Dream Sweet Dreams, and The Many Ways to Say I Love You. Find more information, current artwork, and portfolio on my website: KPOcreative.com I am always updating my Instagram with the latest in creativity! Find me on Instagram: @kpocreative_art

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Summer is by far the most amazing time to visit Northern Michigan. When friends visit, the first activity that comes to mind it to take them wake surfing on Grand Traverse Bay in Traverse City, Michigan. We might visit a winery or two on Old Mission Peninsula. Towards sunset we would end with an old fashioned beach bonfire compete with s’mores made with Reeses peanut butter cup. Northern Michigan has the best sunsets on earth!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have been blessed to surround myself with strong female leaders who encourage each other and are over-the-moon excited for each other’s continued accomplishments. A few I’d love to mention:
Soon Hagerty of Boundless Futures Foundation: Empowering women entrepreneurs to make an impact @ boundless_futures
Stacey Feeley, owner of Go Sili Products: Working to replace single use products with silicone innovations @ gosiliproducts
Alex Billette of Kindred Mission Beauty: Using beauty as an avenue to help others @kindredmissionbeauty
Jen Kuhar of Mission Proper Cafe: Creating community through coffee in Traverse City, Michigan @ missionproper
Erin Simon of Haven Clothing Boutique: Providing inspiration and style for women in Northern Michigan @ havenclothingtc

Website: https://kporeative.com

Instagram: @kpocreative_art