Maker Spotlight: Kay Jay Designs
Kait Johnson is the hands and heart behind Kay Jay Designs. Kait has always been an artist, but made the leap into launching her own design brand last year. When she is not budtending at Prairie and Luna, you can find her with her baby girl, in the woods, or creating vibrant, whimsical, nature-inspired art pieces.
How long have you been an artist?
I’ve been artistic my whole life, I grew up with a love of drawing and it has stayed with me. I only recently started my art business, Kay Jay Designs, in January of 2022. It’s been slow growth for me so far but I’m still enjoying it!
2. Who are your biggest artistic influences?
My late father was always my biggest influence growing up, he was an artist and a hippie and I definitely followed those footsteps. I’ve always been fond of nature inspired impressionist artists like A.Y. Jackson and Monet. Nowadays I am strongly impacted by artists I’ve found on Instagram! I love being able to pull influence from multiple mediums and appreciate how diverse the online community can be!
3. What is your favourite medium?
I am quite fond of a brush marker, myself, but I love all kinds of markers. I’ve dabbled in most mediums and do love acrylic and watercolour paint as well, but markers just call my name! Most of my designs are heavy on small details and fine point markers by Micron and Staedler are fantastic.
4. Where do you find inspiration?
I think I find the most inspiration from nature. I love going for long walks, taking pictures of flowers and mushrooms for reference. I also find the best colour palettes outside! From sunsets at the river, to big dark forests, to flowery meadows, our area has some really beautiful, inspiring landscapes.
5. How has your style changed over time?
I feel like my art style is constantly changing! I love branching out and experimenting with new techniques. I have definitely come into my natural style over the last few years. I used to be a bit of a perfectionist, overly focused on realism; now I like my cute cartoonish style! I think it’s important for artists to embrace their natural ability and lean into it.
6. What are your favourite and least-favourite parts of professional art?
My favourite part is seeing my art come to life on products! Getting to see my art as stickers and printed on clothes is so fulfilling. I think my least-favourite part is marketing; I find social media very hard to keep up with and it seems like the only way to get yourself out there these days.
7. How does cannabis influence your art?
I feel it’s pretty safe to say that cannabis has a big influence on my art! I definitely do strategic shopping when I’m looking for creative strains. I always keep my eye out for terpene blends that help me chill out but keep my brain active (for me: pinene, caryophyllene, and limonene!) I personally find a straight sativa is too much for me; I need more of a hybrid experience to be able to tap into my creative brain. It’s also very important for me to set my intention and my space before consuming; I like to return from smoking with my art supplies ready and waiting, then jump right in!
8. Where can we find your art for sale?
I currently have my art up on RedBubble! You can also find prints and stickers at Prairie and Luna! You can also follow me on Instagram @kay.jay.designs.