Meet Katharina May

We were lucky to catch up with Katharina May recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Katharina, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

Honestly, I like being alone and working alone. For me it´s way more comfortable and also easier to focus on the project I work on. I guess it wasn´t even a process to learn, but more my preference and a lucky circumstance. I don´t need competition to grow, at least not always.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

As a self-employed artist I mainly paint pictures in acrylic and oil. My university was my home. I belong to the group of artists who taught themselves their skills through observation, testing, experimentation and self-study. I figured out how to build up a great texture with different materials found in nature, like sand, feathers, wood chips. I learned how to bring depth to my artworks, how to control my brushes and how to inspire myself and be disciplined. Another aspect of my work is the message itself. In my series “knotted guns” you can see the juxtaposition of weakened violence and innocence. A topic which got more and more important to me. I have expanded this line even further and who knows, maybe there will be more to come.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Never give up and I will repeat myself – never give up. There will be a tough time, creative break, there are people who are envious or jealous, there is rejection and maybe you have to fight a little more than others. But it´s worth it. Keep dreaming, keep working, keep fighting. Have the goal in mind and enjoy the ride.

Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?

You all know the Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. Many years ago I read a book written by him – The Art of Happiness. Highly recommended! I´m not religious, so isn´t this book, at least not as much. This isn´t about a technical book or expertise. This is about your life and what you can take out of it. Realization about all the possibilities and good things and moods around. Daily life has enough obstacles we have to overcome, but with a positive mindset a lot is manageable. I loved reading this book and there isn´t one dull page. “Our moment-to-moment happiness is largely determined by our outlook.” There is sun after a rain, ups after some downs and succsess after hard work.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.gallerymay.com
• Instagram: gallerymay_art

Image Credits

Katharina May