
I’m excited to share the results of the People’s Choice Award from my most recent Art Reception Open House! Out of the 36 pieces displayed, 24 received votes, reflecting the broad appeal of both the style and the themes explored. Here are the top results:
First Place: Pierced
Second Place: Jars of Clay
Third Place: Mind Shift, Seashell Beach and First Fruits (3 Way Tie)
Word Art Designs: Layers of Meaning In this series, I use Word Art Designs to explore the profound layers of meaning that words hold—for understanding, application, growth, and rooting truth in our lives. These drawings bring words to life, letter by letter, stacked from bottom to top. The final letter rests at the base, supporting the layers above, while the first letter proudly crowns the top. Each letter is outlined, with intersections broadened and reinforced, and sharp corners softened to allow a continuous, flowing movement without abrupt stops.
The result is a design that transforms a word into a cohesive, unified object—composed of individual, unique parts. Each letter plays a vital role, contributing to the strength and clarity of the word’s meaning. Some letters take the lead, while others support and stabilize, reflecting a balance of collaboration and integration. Together, they deliver a message of harmony, strength, and purpose, waiting to reach those who need it most.
A Yearly Journey of Words Every year, I choose a single word to guide my focus—a lens through which I see the world and live my life. These words become my companions, shaping my understanding and actions throughout the year. The designs I create reflect the words I have lived with, offering a visual representation of their depth and significance. My hope is that by sharing them, others may also find inspiration and meaning in their journey.
Therese Kettman
Studio Owner
In 2021, I answered a long-silent call within me—the desire to create. It began with colors: letting them clash, collide, move, and flow side by side. The more I immersed myself in the process, the more I became lost in a world of boundless exploration. I discovered that I had been holding back, denying the inner tug to take a chance, to embrace freedom, to get gloriously messy. I realized something beautiful: I don’t need to know what the end will look like, because the real magic happens in the adventure of the 'in between.'
This journey has been all about taking a plunge—a leap into the unknown, into a new world of exploration:
A plunge into discovering my artist voice.
A plunge into building new connections and finding my creative community.
A plunge into recognizing my worth in simply being—giving and receiving.
A plunge into vulnerability, visibility, and courage to take risks.
A plunge into unfamiliar territory, like stepping into a foreign land where I don’t know the language or the cultural rules.
And so, here I go, stepping boldly into this adventure of creativity and transformation.
— Therese