Original Balm of Gilead inspired painting by Kateri
In celebration of the artistry behind evanhealy’s Balm of Gilead Elixir, we sat down with Kateri Ewing, an artist whose work is rooted in reverence for nature and mindful rituals. Together, we explore the intersection of creativity, self-care, and the healing power of the natural world.
Here is the artist's inspiration for this piece inspired by the Balm Of Gilead Elixir.
What inspires you?
Kateri: I live in an historic village just southeast of Buffalo. I have a modest little house that is a sanctuary of pure creative industry that I share with my sweetheart, and three cats. Out my back door is 633 acres of fields, woodlands, ponds and wetlands. It's a magical place in all seasons. And honestly, my materials inspire me as much as anything. A gorgeous piece of white paper, a well-made paint brush, a rainbow of pigments. I am especially inspired by the handmade watercolors created by my friends Agnese and Daina of Deep Deep Light. Watercolor, as an expressive medium, is alive. How can you not be inspired by those gorgeous colors awakened by water, dancing and mingling together on the page?
What is your philosophy on art and practices around creativity-why does it seem like there is a Zen-like quality to your artwork?
Kateri: The answer to this question is basically the same for other areas of my life, including skin care rituals. For me it is not results oriented or burdened with any expectations, but is completely about the truth of the moment and the direct experience of ritual and sensorial awakening and pleasure. For me, my watercolor practice is truly a meditation.
Can you describe your creative rituals?
Kateri: My morning ritual is the most sacred. I begin by lighting fairy lights and candles, splashing my face with warm water, and applying evanhealy’s HydroSoul—Sandalwood is my favorite. These grounding practices prepare me for the day’s creative work, whether writing in my notebook or sketching natural objects.
Rituals like these remind us of the intimate connection between self-care and mindfulness. Skincare, when done with intention, can become a meditation—an invitation to slow down and connect with ourselves.
If folks are interested in learning how to paint from you, how would they do that?
Kateri: I use my Patreon virtual classroom to interact with my students, worldwide, daily. I truly believe that creating art is a must for every human being, and I include simple lessons to make your creative practice a simple, daily habit. I also have an online school, Art & Spirit Studio. Everything is linked through my website, www.kateriewing.com. Brand new beginners who say they “don’t have a creative bone in my body,” are my very favorite students. I prove them wrong every single time.
Last year, we had the honor of collaborating with her to create some magical, high-vibrational art celebrating the Full Flower Moon and our Pink Flower Moon ritual. We hope that her art will inspire a mindful moment of reflection and self-care.
Kateri was kind enough to provide a Flower Moon watercolor lesson for those who would like some guidance in creating their own masterpiece. See video:
What’s the best way to keep in touch or sign up for lessons?
Kateri: You can follow me on Instagram @kateriewing, @artandspirit_studio and visit my website, www.kateriewing.com
