Kay Hatcher knew when her Lone Ranger picture won first prize in the 2nd grade that a great career in the arts awaited. But it took until her youngest child left for kindergarten that that promise was given a chance to grow. She signed up for classes that same day.

A seasonal Rio resident since 2005, the thriving arts community of the southwest was a significant factor in determining her family’s retirement choice.  After working as a media spokesperson and a State Representative, the laid back lifestyle of the Verdes provided everything needed.

As a retired historic arts teacher for the National Society of Decorative Painters, her works have been featured in national publications.  Comfortable with both oils and acrylics, her first love is teaching. “Nothing beats watching someone’s eyes light up when they “get it”. To me, taking their vision beyond their teacher’s is the ultimate compliment.”

Her palette is often huge. A 2 story Gingerbread Doll House Emporium embellished with antique toys was an unusual mall attraction and was featured in tourism promotions. 

Kay’s talent lies not in precision, but in her marriage of unique items with historic, often untutored, patterns. “One of my favorite projects was to help restore a classic 1850’s 12 room Greek Revival farmhouse based on designs found in a vintage sampler. Birds from a similarly dated coverlet were also used. To symbolize the owner’s religious commitment, a heart was incorporated in the design over each of the nine doors and windows.  In each heart was painted one of the nine tenets of the Bible: faith, hope, charity, etc.”

Her philosophy is simple. “Art is truly an expression of yourself - unique - and judged only by your own standards. You can learn from as many teachers as possible, but use those tools as a starting point. To reverse the old saying, “Trust me”, trust yourself instead.  Your work should make your heart smile.”