Interview
Kaitlyn Synan
Kaitlyn Synan is a contemporary artist whose work explores the fleeting nature of human emotion and the temporary moments that shape our reality. Using acrylic, she captures the fleeting nature of emotions, inviting a quiet reflection on the transient experiences that shape our inner world. Rooted in a deep connection to nature and community, Kaitlyn’s art embodies the delicate balance between solitude and shared existence.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“Art has always been a huge part of my life, my mother is an artist, and my father is a musician, so I grew up in a house that encouraged creativity. I was also lucky enough to be raised in the Catskills, a region steeped in the legacy of the Hudson River School, where the works of Thomas Cole and the landscapes of Olana deeply influenced my perception of light, atmosphere, and the appreciation of nature. In high school, a mural of Starry Night served as a daily reminder of the emotional power of painting, reinforcing my connection to the medium. I first saw it when I was 3 years old, and as a junior, I accomplished my goal of painting a mural right next to it- The first mural painted in the school in 10 years. I later pursued my formal education at SUNY Purchase, where I refined my technical skills and artistic voice. From a young age, I understood that painting was not just a passion, but a calling, and thankfully I was born in a place and surrounded by people that encouraged me to pursue it.”
What inspires you?
“I find inspiration in my daily experiences, small moments that make me appreciate small infinities. Whether that be in a group setting or in solitude, these moments hold an emotional weight that I try to capture in my work. A hearty laugh, a loud dance floor, a feeling of nostalgia, these are the things that make life worth living, and paintings worth painting.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“Impermanence is a recurring theme in my art. I explore the transient nature of emotions, memories, and moments. I love using light and color to convey my inner workings. Rather than conveying a fixed message, I aim to create a space for contemplation, where viewers can bring their own emotions and interpretations to the piece, and where I can create a place for me to express all that I feel in a beautiful way, even when it's not necessarily beautiful to experience.”
How would you describe your work?
“My paintings balance between surrealism and a dreamlike atmosphere, often with a focus on color, texture, and light. I use layering techniques to build depth, allowing the piece to evolve naturally until it captures the essence of the moment or feeling I want to preserve.”
Which artists influence you most?
“Vincent Van Gogh has always been a huge inspiration to me - not just for his use of color and movement, but for the raw emotion in his work. His ability to alchemize his negative experiences into incredible expressions of beauty is an inspiration for me, helping me build confidence to chase my passions. I’m drawn to artists who, regardless of their experiences, create immersive, atmospheric pieces that pull you into a world beyond the canvas, and express beauty when it's difficult to see what's beautiful, and Van Gogh’s work does that beautifully.”
“My paintings balance between surrealism and a dreamlike atmosphere, often with a focus on color, texture, and light.”
What is your creative process like?
“It begins with a feeling rather than a fixed image. A moment in nature, a particular color shift, or an atmosphere that lingers in my mind often becomes the catalyst. I start with an experience, getting out of the house, and seeing what there is to see. Once in the studio, I layer acrylics gradually, allowing the interplay of light and shadow to shape the final piece. Sometimes, I start with a specific idea, other times it's a flow state of mixing and layering. The process is intuitive, and more about discovery than strict planning.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“Artists serve as observers, storytellers, and catalysts for emotion. Whether through beauty, introspection, or provocation, art has the power to shift perspectives and create connections. Every artist is equipped with different skills meant to tell a story, and there are so many new ways to be an artist and many new stories that need to be told. The need to express will never change, but how we do it will.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“Most recently, I was a finalist in Blue Space Gallery's show, Ephemeral Now, which was a wonderful experience. My fellow finalists and award winners were so talented, I was very excited to present with such inspiring artists from all over the world!”
Website: www.artsykae.com
Instagram: @artsy_kae
