Kate Caner is a Cape Town-based artist who’s shattering a few stereotypes in the creative world: she’s self-taught (and crushing it) and creates works in a variety of different styles.
“I pride myself on being a “versatile artist” and I say that because I am not prone to one style, medium or subject. From realistic portraits, fun cartoon creations, abstract works, landscapes, and even hand-painted clothing, I create it all. Having said that if you look at my work as a collective, it all has the same Kate Caner feel, which is fun and full of life.”
Kate used two years of quiet time, AKA lockdown, to have some big chats with herself. During this period, she harnessed her self-confidence and committed to growing her brand, Kate Kreate. “Since then, slowly but surely my brand as an artist is growing and the journey so far has been a beautiful one.”
She certainly knows her way around a pencil; and crayon; and paintbrush. Kate’s a diverse talent that puts soul into every piece she brings to life. Her style flows from caricature to realism and her muses are ever-changing. Constant, though, is her raw talent.
“I have done many commissioned portraits of special families, couples and even pets as well as other commissioned pieces like abstract artworks etc. These pieces are so precious to me because I know that they become sentimental items for my clients and I love everything about that fact. I put my heart and soul into everything I create.”
Kate’s abilities have caught the attention of brands and businesses, both local and international. From lockdown jitters to commissioned and resident artist, Kate really can Kreate. Recently, she was commissioned to draw a portrait of Ernie Els to be auctioned as part of a fundraiser for non-profit organization Els for Autism Foundation.
“Leaving my job to focus fully on Kate Kreate was the scariest thing to do, but I had to do it. I am not a trained artist, meaning I have never studied it, or anything of the sort and that has made me feel for a very long time that I have no business trying to be a professional artist. But art and creating is just in my blueprint, it is in my heart and soul; it is my identifier as a human being and sharing my passion and work with people is what makes me the happiest version of myself.”
Kate is currently channelling all of her colours and energy into growing her business and inspiring young artists from every corner of Cape Town to do what they love.
“I want to inspire young and upcoming artists more than anything. I am working on Kate Kreate as a brand that will open a world of many creative outlets and products, such as an art print store, where my works will be available to purchase online in various sizes and finishes, creating one-of-a-kind clothing pieces, hosting art workshops for kids and adults, and I am entering the very exciting NFT world.”
Whether it’s a birthday card, family portrait, rebranding your business, having the grooviest disco jeans or transforming a bland wall in your home, Kate Caner can Kreate it. If you’re keen on getting or commissioning a piece by Kate, get in touch:
- Instagram: @katekreate_
- TikTok: @katekreate
- Email: [email protected]
Check out some more Kate Kreate-ions:
Also read:
Finding the mystery artist at the Zeitz Mocaa, Home Is Where The Art Is
Picture: @katekreate_
