February Creator of the Month: Kerstin Luettich

Kerstin Luettich's journey has been a vibrant fusion of artistry, exploration and self-expression. Born and raised in Berlin, Germany, Kerstin was introduced to the world of art at a very young age. With a mother, who constantly had a bowl of pencils around, Kerstin was able to delve into drawing early on in her childhood, fueling her passion for creativity. 

As she grew, her creativity extended beyond the static canvas, coming alive into movements as she found herself drawn to the world of dance and competitive gymnastics, breathing both grace and athleticism into her creations. 

Following her high school graduation, Kerstin’s thirst to explore and learn more about the world beyond the comfort of her home led her on a nine month journey through France on her motorcycle. After receiving a telegram from her father about her unexpected acceptance to the University of Fine Arts in Berlin, Kerstin decided to move back to Berlin and pursue her artistic passions further. She studied political science, fine arts and physical education with a major in dance.Kerstin went on to become a teacher to share her passions all the while settling down with her husband and having two children. 

Driven by curiosity and the desire to immerse herself and her family in other cultures, Kerstin and her husband seized the opportunity to move to Canada through DAAD, the world’s largest funding organization for the international exchange of students and researchers. After seven years in Toronto, Kerstin settled in Vancouver. Living in these cities has broadened and enriched her perspective on both culture and society.  

Despite the demands and responsibilities she garnered in life, Kerstin never lost sight of her artistic endeavors. Even with long periods away from creating, she always found her way back to her creative roots from taking classes in mix media to acrylics to participating in  BC Brain Wellness Program classes. In addition, in the last couple of years, she has also found her way back to dancing again where she is currently as a community dancer part of a professional dance group. 

Here is a little excerpt on what Kerstin thinks of Art from the Heart:

“When I think about painting, I go back to my early childhood. Sitting beside my mother at our kitchen table, where right in front of me was paper and a whole bunch of colored pencils; creativity in abundance. The BC Brain Wellness, and the program class, Art from the Heart, brought many of those memories back. I no longer sit at that kitchen table and my mom is long gone but unleashing creativity has remained a constant.

It is the welcoming atmosphere and the open-minded sentiment that kick-starts creative processes which then lead to sometimes surprising outcomes. Unlike other art work I produce, it is all about the moment. The ideas which guide my fingers in a short time span, the release of any tension, the joy of unleashing deep feelings, the unconscious connection with colors and forms and emotions. It brings me pure joy. Thursday is a day in the week I am always looking forward to. Thursday is the day of the program class. Shine or rain, heat or cold - I am on my machine awaiting the prompt.

Creativity is a lonely thing and requires looking inside. This program does it all. It unlocks my creative potential in a stimulating atmosphere. It gives me calmness and also pride. I love the meditation part. This is the moment I dive deep into my creative process and it gives me confidence throughout the week.” 

For Kerstin, art is not merely about technique; it is a deeply personal and emotive process that is not bounded and measured by one’s ability. It is a means of channeling our innermost thoughts and feelings, a form of self-expression and exploration.  She mentions how it is important to just start and let your emotions and your mood guide you and realize after that you have created something. 

“Look at what you created and feel it. In time, you begin to see lines and forms that you can doodle around and emphasize around. This is the definition of art work. You must go away from the stubbornness of your high expectations as a newcomer. Art starts with one line. Let loose and put on music and don’t think - just start. It’s not ability, it is passion.”

If you are interested in her artwork please feel free to visit her website: www.16oaksdesign.com