ABOUT THE ARTIST

K Kriesel | K Kriesel Art
Artist – Textile Artist

K, they/them, is originally from Chicago and currently resides in Jo Daviess county, IL. They studied art therapy at Alverno College in Milwaukee, WI, and interned at both the Milwaukee Gay Arts Center and The Alliance School, an alternative high school for LGBTQIA+ teens. K is a textile artist combining Catholic symbolism and nature themes, creating intricate pieces to meditate upon for healing from spiritual trauma.

An Associate of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, K has advised and facilitated workshops for church groups to work effectively towards inclusivity since 2016. They pursued a Masters of Pastoral Studies at Loyola University New Orleans and Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary.

My artwork weaves together nature and Catholic symbolism reminiscent of medieval mystics and post-Vatican II women religious (nuns and sisters). Ecclesiastical images such as Mother Mary, the Sacred Heart, and Holy Communion thrive in these pieces outside of the patriarchal Church institution. I work primarily in textiles such as quilting, embroidery, and beadwork while also utilizing 3d printing. My art journey has moved from creating artwork for myself to sharing with others, especially those healing from spiritual abuse and trauma.