Q&A: Kimmy Henderson Turns Discarded Items into Art

Kimmy Henderson's artwork spans from painted windows you can hang in your home to decorated wine glasses, and the local artist has several of those pieces on display now through July 14 inside at the .

Henderson's artwork is featured alongside pieces from Ted Lawson (who we'll feature Friday in another artist Q&A) in the Instant Reflections exhibit.

Take a look below and see what Henderson has to say about finding her way as an artist, which piece of artwork means the most to her and what she thinks about North Canton embracing the arts.

North Canton Patch: Tell me about the work you've got in the Little Art Gallery right now.

Henderson: The Little Art gallery is currently showcasing several windows I have painted. I like to use salvaged and discarded things as canvases to create beautiful new pieces of art. They have such a unique story and I love re-using and recycling junk for the green aspect. I also have custom-designed stemware that make practical and timeless gifts.

North Canton Patch: Is being an artist your career? If not, what do you do as your career?

Henderson: After five years of college and four majors, I haven’t really found a direct path. I didn’t know what I wanted to be when I grew up. I have been a bartender and server for the last 10 years. I recently began painting full time and building a career doing what I love.

North Canton Patch: What kind of artwork did you make when you were a kid? Did you consider yourself an artist then?

Henderson: I have always been creative minded, making and painting gifts for family and friends. Everyone who has ever known me tells me they remember the doodles and drawings I have made since elementary school. I have been doodling on notes, napkins anything I can get my hands on.

North Canton Patch: How do push yourself to improve as an artist?

Henderson: This is a new endeavor for me. I never dreamed I could make a living from painting. Right now what inspires me is my family. I want my children to know they can do what they love.

North Canton Patch: What piece of artwork that you've created means the most to you?

Henderson: One of my most valuable pieces is the very first window I painted. I found it in the basement at our old apartment. I fell in love with it and wanted to display it. I painted it and hung it in our living room. I immediately received requests from friends and visitors and discovered that I could start painting and selling windows.

North Canton Patch: What artist or artists inspire you?

Henderson: I am inspired by many artists that use different mediums to express themselves. I think that is the beauty of art. It can be whatever you want it to be.

North Canton Patch: Would you like to see the North Canton community embrace the arts more? How do you think they could do that?

Henderson: I think North Canton is doing a great job of embracing the arts through local events like . I think it is great to offer open calls for exhibits for people to have a chance to display their work without the fear of being rejected.