Meet the Artist: Kasey Rainbow

Meet Kasey Rainbow

Tell us a bit about yourself, your hobbies, your passions?

My story is a long one. And one day, I plan to tell it. But for now... Here is the abridged version. My name is Kasey Rainbow. 'Mum' to one amazing little girl.Chaotic wife to a calm husband. I love to eat, but I cannot cook. I love to dance, but I do it badly. I laugh loud and sneeze louder. To me, leopard print is a neutral. As are glitter, sequins and sparkles. My main goal is to help others. And yes. It is my real name.

What inspires you to create your Art?

I have always been an artist at heart, but with no formal training or qualifications I truly believed my love of creating could only ever be a hobby. However, my journey took a vibrant turn in 2017 when I discovered a new love of digital art. YouTube tutorials took on the role as teacher and guided me - the over eager student - into the wonderful world of textile design.

This newfound passion sparked a realisation in me - my dream of becoming an artist could in fact, become reality. I hung onto that spark for dear life and in February 2020 took the ultimate plunge. I quit my ‘safe and secure’ office job and embraced the unpredictable yet fulfilling path of a full time artist.

I have only been working in the industry for a few years, but in that short time I have had some amazing opportunities come my way and have been lucky enough to work with some fabulous businesses - big and small.

Why do you do what you do?

My purpose in life has always been to be kind and live bright.
I have suffered from mental illness since I was 18 years old, and this has formed a huge part of who I am as a person.

Many times during my darkest periods, I would look to art in a bid to inject some happiness into my world. It has helped shape me into the human I am today and it brings me so much joy knowing my art is helping others by doing the same.

As someone who often felt lost in this big wide world, I found my colourful space online and have built a beautiful and loyal community. Without their encouragement, I would not have gotten to where I am today and I am forever grateful to them.

What's next?

During the COVID pandemic, I (like many others) struggled. That time took a toll on my mental health in many ways. My social anxiety was through the roof, social media was a mine field and I had never felt lonelier. In a bid to bring myself out of the dark, I created my own happy place - Kutopia.

With the help and support of the team at Scholastic, I am passionate about bringing this world (and its colourful kaleidescope of residents) to life. I want to provide children with a safe (and fun!) space to explore their strengths and a warm place to find company, love and support, especially when they are struggling.

The last few years have been a wild ride, but I would not have it any other way - and I am SO excited for what the future holds.

Those years were just my prologue.

My real story is just beginning...