This portrait was inspired by my best friend who is an exceptional photographer. She has built a business around her passion for capturing the unique beauty of every client and a mission to empower women through portraits. In addition to building her photography business, she is mother to a young boy, wife, hunter, community volunteer, and explorer of the beauty of nature. Katie is a passionate advocate for the victims of human trafficking, and one of the kindest people I know. She contributes to the success and support of many small, woman-owned businesses in our community.
As often happens in a small rural town, she has had to overcome many obstacles set in place by an established hierarchy and small mindedness. She has always handled herself with a measure of grace and integrity that I greatly admire. It is no small feat to set boundaries and stand your ground against people who want to dictate your place and limit your opportunities.
Her portrait, as much of my work does, includes pop culture references in the form of a song title by Billie Eilish. Because my inner illustrator enjoys a good story, I have also included symbolic elements such as the peacock, a waning moon circlet, and stars. People lash out when they are intimidated, and there is nothing more threatening to the insecure than a self-confident woman.