Kate Brooks

Kate Kirton Brooks paints places that stay with you—peaceful hills, coastal waves, familiar fields, and the quiet corners of the world that stir something within. Born in New York, raised in Ohio, and shaped by time on the coast of Maine, Kate now calls West Tennessee home. Her work reflects this tapestry of experiences—each landscape carrying a memory, a feeling, or a moment of calm.

Though she’s always been drawn to crafting, Kate didn’t start painting until 2020, during the early days of the pandemic. With acrylics, YouTube tutorials, and a spirit of curiosity, she began to experiment. Eventually, she found her favorite medium: water-soluble oils. They offer the rich texture of traditional oils with the added benefit of soap-and-water cleanup—perfect for her bold, expressive process, which often involves paper towels, stained fingers, and a fearless sense of play.

Largely self-taught, Kate continues to learn through books, observation, and hands-on practice. In 2025, she attended the Plein Air Convention, soaking up insights from more than 20 professional artists. Her painting process now includes both plein air adventures and studio sessions, always beginning with sketches, studies, and an intuitive feel for light and mood.

Kate paints in her home studio—shared with a pool table—and outdoors, wherever the light and safety allow. She draws inspiration from nature, travel, and a lifelong admiration for artists like Monet. Her work is guided by a belief that painting is not just about what you see—but what you help others feel.

Her art has been exhibited at The Coffee Shop in Humboldt, Carriage House Antique Mall, Picasso Restaurant, and Art in the Village. She’ll also be featured in a solo show at the Carnegie Center for the Arts in Jackson in September 2025.

“I put my heart and soul into each piece. I hope my paintings help others feel the joy, peace, or awe I felt when I stood in that place.”