Spotlight | Katie Whyte, Visual Artist
A talented artist on living and influencing the local industry.
Published on 5 December 2019
Photography by Morgan Smith
Katie Whyte’s influence on the local arts scene stretches far beyond her numerous, iconic street murals. After studying a Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours) at USQ, Katie’s bright style in both painting and just generally in life continues to influence and nurture the arts in Toowoomba.
We sat down with Katie in her home studio to talk all things business, weekends and art supplies.
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first things first: why Toowoomba?
I grew up in Bundaberg and moved to Toowoomba straight after high school. Even as a teenager I wanted to live in Toowoomba because it seemed more peaceful compared to a bigger city. I still believe this.
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Can you please describe your business?
I am an artist who is passionate about vision. I have a unique background in both the creative arts as a painter and the study of vision as a therapist.
This means my work is not limited to painting in my studio but often takes on various roles. I provide creative consultation for individuals and businesses, I deliver educational services such as workshops, artist talks and mural tours, and I often get fantastic opportunities to work with others on collaborations, mural commissions, product development and public art projects.
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What have you learned about running a business in Toowoomba?
As a creative sole trader in Toowoomba I have learnt that there is great benefit in connecting with the local community. Sharing knowledge and working together builds a positive business culture around the arts and makes our work accessible to a larger audience. The most rewarding connections I have made in Toowoomba have all come from genuine conversations about what others are passionate about.
What does an average day look like for you?
An average day for me (when I am not at my other job at the City Library) is usually spent in front of a book, my laptop, an unfinished painting or my steering wheel! As much as I would love to spend all day lazing around my home studio I am a one person operation so I am kept busy running around town for meetings and delivering artworks that I sell locally and online via my website. I also really enjoy discussing art with others and find I am always meeting new people this way.
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What does your ideal Toowoomba weekend look like?
Saturday starts at Cobb & Co Markets for local produce and gluten-free donuts, followed by an extensive op shop adventure before lunch. Then time at home to rest and play in my kitchen and the garden before taking my dogs for a walk. They love Dr Alex Horn Park or a hike through the trails around Picnic Point and Table Top Reserve. Sunday is very similar as I hunt for second-hand books at the PCYC Markets and often buy too many plants to carry home. Then the rest of the day is spent in the studio, listening to music and drinking tea as I paint and plan for future art projects.
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Only a Toowoomba local would know…
how beautiful Boyce Gardens is all year round.
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FAVOURITE WEEKEND SPOT TO:
PERK UP: Banter Coffee Kitchen on Margaret Street for coffee, chats and new art.
RELAX: with a sketchbook on a blanket in the sun at my favourite spot in Boyce Gardens.
EAT: I love making my way through everything on the menu at Burrow and Sweet Talk.
INDULGE: New art supplies from Murray’s. I have been obsessed with art shops since I was a kid and never leave empty handed.
SHOP: Anywhere local for food, clothes and gifts to keep my money in my community. Markets, ops shops and pop up events are my go-to for shopping.
CATCH UP: Either an early morning coffee at Banter or late morning pastry at Baker’s Duck.
BE INSPIRED: First Coat Studios on Laurel Street near Queens Park to see what is new in the gallery and in the studios of the resident artists.
