Nexus: What does being an artist mean to you?
Kayla: For me being an artist is my way of physically adding something to the world that, while not everyone will like, some people will connect with. Being able to conjure up an idea and turn it into something physical on paper is just so satisfying. As an animal behaviourist I’m able to link two hobbies together, and it’s so interesting to see which animals people connect with.
Nexus: How difficult is it to create the little details in your work? What does this process look like?
Kayla: The details are what make my art take so long to do. I’m constantly trying to come up with new patterns, and to make it work within the piece. With the pattern ideas that I have in my head, I’ll fill in my outline with pencil. Usually, I come up with the patterns on the spot when I’m drawing in pen. With my style, I feel it’s better to let the ideas flow rather than preempt what I’m going to do.
Nexus: You use pigment liners for your work, how expensive is that?
Kayla: Don’t get me started. They’re so expensive and I go through them so quickly. I may have even accidentally stolen one once because I forgot it was in my pocket. When I sat down in the car and realised, I didn’t even go back and pay for it because the amount I spend there each year is enough to keep their company afloat. I did have one pen last like four years somehow though so shout out to UniBall.
Nexus: What’s your earliest memory of art?
Kayla: I’ll let this picture speak for itself.
Nexus: What is the Hamilton art community like?
Kayla: I’ve done a few markets and met a few different artists – they’re all so lovely! It’s amazing how differently creativity is expressed in people. We’re all classed as “artists” but have such different niches that we all still appreciate and support. I haven’t come across anyone with my exact same style. Most people use colours, but I like the idea that people can colour mine in if they want.
Nexus: Tell us about your biggest aspiration as an artist.
Kayla: My biggest aspiration at the moment is to have the opportunity to do more murals. I’ve only done one so far and I loved it! Just knowing something you created is in a public space whether people like it or not is such a cool thing to me. The ultimate aspiration is to have my own little gallery where I can draw full time but I need a sugar daddy first… applications to kaylapolleyklp@gmail.com
