1. Tell us a little about yourself and your artistic journey. What led you to become an artist?
When I was younger, drawing and painting were ways for me to make sense of the world and express things I couldn’t always put into words. Over time, that passion grew into a career. Today I’m a full time artist based in Niagara Falls. It’s been a journey of learning to trust my own voice and realizing that art isn’t just something I make, it’s how I connect with people.
2. Your work is deeply inspired by nature, folklore, and mythology. What draws you to these themes?
I’ve always been fascinated by the symbolism found in nature. My artistic journey is driven by a desire to recreate the things that bring joy and embody the pure essence of innocence. I believe that there is a childlike magic within all of us, a sense of freedom and wonder that often gets lost in the complexities of adulthood. Through my art, I aim to reignite this magic, allowing viewers to reconnect with their inner child and experience a renewed sense of liberation. To me, folklore is a way of exploring human experiences through metaphor, and that’s something I try to capture in my work.
3. How would you describe your artistic style to someone who has never seen your work before?
I’d describe it as mystical, magical, and natural. I try not to limit myself by sticking to any one subject, but no matter what I create, these themes are present. My work blends realism with stylized elements to create scenes that feel peaceful, dreamlike, and enchanted.
4. Can you walk us through your creative process? Where do your ideas usually begin?
Most ideas begin with a feeling. I’m often most inspired when walking in nature or reading. I’ll meditate on an emotion I want to explore, then I research stories or symbols that connect with that idea.
5. Is there a particular piece or collection you’ve created that holds special meaning for you? Why?
One piece that holds a special place for me is In Dreams. It was one of the most technically challenging paintings I’ve created. It became a kind of window into my imagination, almost a glimpse into my soul. Finishing it gave me a new level of confidence as an artist and reminded me that the most meaningful work often comes from being willing to be vulnerable.
6. What has your experience been like as a tenant at the Niagara Arts & Cultural Center?
Having a dedicated studio has allowed me to grow both creatively and professionally. I’ve made new friends during my time here and being surrounded by fellow artists creates an environment that’s incredibly motivating.
7. How has having a studio at the NACC impacted your creative practice or career?
Having a studio has allowed me to think bigger. It’s given me the room to work on large scale murals, prepare for exhibitions and online sales, and organize my business in ways I couldn’t before. Having a dedicated space that’s available to me any time of day has been invaluable.
8. What do you hope people feel or experience when they view your artwork?
I hope people feel seen, understood, and experience an emotion they may not have had in a long time. Life moves so quickly, and I want my work to invite people to slow down, notice the details, and reconnect with a sense of wonder. If someone walks away feeling peaceful, curious, hopeful, or inspired to look at life a little differently, then I’ve accomplished what I set out to do.
9. What projects or events are you currently working on, and what’s next for you?
This month I will be painting a mural inside of my studio that will later be installed along with other local artists work at Buffalo’s new “LoveU Buffalo Art Park” at 99 Thompson St, opening in September. The theme of the park is built on the principles of self love, hope, healing, and empowerment. I will also be showing my work at Lewiston Art Festival on August 8th & 9th. I’m always looking for opportunities to bring more public art to Western New York while continuing to grow my collection of original artwork.
10. Where can people learn more about your work, follow your journey, or purchase your art?
You can find my work at www.kaleighdayart.com as well as on Instagram @kaleighdayart or Facebook under Kaleigh Day Art. I regularly share my creative process, mural projects, new paintings, and upcoming events.
11. In addition to your studio work, you’ve created several murals throughout the region. What do you enjoy most about creating public art, and how is the process different from creating work for a gallery or collector?
What I love most about public art is that it’s accessible to everyone. Someone doesn’t have to visit a gallery to experience it, they can stumble upon it during their everyday life. My hope is that in an unexpected moment, the artwork grounds someone during their busy day and brings them back to the present, even if it’s only for a few seconds. Murals have the ability to transform a space and create a shared experience for an entire community. The process considers architecture, visibility, weather, the history of the location, and the people who will pass by it every day. I love the challenge of creating something that feels like it belongs in its environment while also giving the community something beautiful to connect with.
12. Where can people find your murals around WNY, and are there any locations you’d especially encourage the community to visit?
You can find my most recent work at the Niagara Falls Post Office at 615 Main St, the public piano on Old Falls St, and at the traffic box at North Forest & Stahl Rd in Getzville. I encourage people to visit the Niagara Falls Post Office because it’s such a beautiful historic building, and the mural was designed specifically to celebrate its architecture and history while creating a welcoming experience for everyone who visits.
