Carol Kent: Celebrating Everyday Moments

Carol Kent emerges as a poignant figure in the heart of New Brunswick's artistic community, capturing the essence of daily life with her meticulous pastel work. With a commitment to detail and a penchant for the natural world, she has quickly made a name for herself in the local art scene.

 

Pastel Perfection

 

Inspiration from Unexpected Places

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"My goal is to make people smile."

- Carol Kent

Carol's artistic journey is deeply intertwined with the picturesque landscapes and heartfelt moments captured through her lens—well, not exactly her lens, but those of the talented local photographers whose work serves as her muse. "I have quite a few local photographers who have generously given me permission to use their photos, and there is so much talent out there," she shares. This collaboration allows Carol to transform fleeting moments into permanent keepsakes. From the delicate dance of a bee over a bloom to a child’s joyous discovery on a foggy beach, Carol chooses scenes that stir the soul. "I choose images which appeal to my heart," she explains.

 

Despite her profound connection with nature, Carol's most unexpected muse has been children—surprising for someone who initially anticipated an artistic career painting wildlife. "And to be honest, painting humans is terrifying," she admits. Yet, over the past year, her focus has shifted to capturing children in their elemental form, interacting with nature and animals in simple, evocative snapshots. "I think children just appeal to me in the way that they are able to bring back a time of innocence and simplicity," she reflects.

 

The Artistic Process

Carol's artistic process is both methodical and deeply personal. Commissioned portraits, particularly of humans, present her most formidable challenge. "I am seeing a photo of a loved one that my client has given me to paint, and I have to capture that person’s essence the way they see or remember them," Carol describes. Her approach is collaborative; she engages clients throughout the creation process, ensuring every detail aligns with their vision, bolstered by high-quality reference photos to capture every nuance.

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Over her four-year career, Carol has seen her style evolve from pet portraits to more complex human narratives and textured representations of nature. "I am self-taught and see each work as a learning tool for the next piece," she says, demonstrating an unwavering dedication to growth and mastery within her craft. This evolution is beautifully exemplified in her favourite piece, "Little Miss Sunshine." This intricate painting invites the viewer into a layered world where a little girl examines a sunflower, surrounded by a vivid tapestry of greens and yellows. "I love how you, the viewer, almost feel like you are pushing aside the leaves of the plants to witness this tender moment," she reveals.

 

Artists' Role in Society

Beyond her canvas, Carol believes in the profound impact artists have on society. "My goal is to make people smile," she says, emphasizing the power of art to evoke emotion and provoke contemplation. Her works are more than just visual delights; they are an invitation to pause, reflect, and appreciate the mundane yet beautiful moments of life.

 

Future Projects and Community Engagement

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Looking ahead, Carol is excited about her recent projects, including two 2025 wall calendars featuring her art and a children's book titled Hamburger and French Flies – A Barn Swallow’s Story, which has already garnered international acclaim. Additionally, her involvement with the Saint John Art Club and participation in local art events underscores her commitment to the community and fellow artists.

 

For those just starting in the field of art, Carol offers straightforward yet powerful advice: "Practice! Practice! Practice and then get out there and go for it." Her journey underscores the importance of perseverance, community engagement, and continuous learning in the pursuit of artistic excellence.

 

Carol Kent's work not only celebrates the beauty of New Brunswick but also enriches its cultural tapestry, making everyday moments magnificent through her vibrant pastels and heartfelt dedication.

 

 

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