CONNIE KITTOK

Meet Connie Kittok, a talented Contemporary Folk Artist hailing from the vibrant streets of   New Orleans and now thriving in the charming town of Ponchatoula, Louisiana. With an   impressive 45 years in the commercial art world, Connie has collaborated with a myriad of      corporate giants across the Crescent City. Armed with a Commercial Art degree from Delgado Community College and enriched by her studies at the University of Southeastern Louisiana, she brings a unique blend of experience and passion to her artwork. A celebrated participant in the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival for over 14 years and a regular fixture at the Three Rivers Covington Art Festival for 8 years, along with a number of other local Louisiana and Mississippi Festivals. Connie’s work reflects the rich culture and spirit of Louisiana through her contemporary folk style.

There is a spirit in New Orleans that you just can’t quite describe. It's a beautiful blend of history, culture, and the vibrancy of life that infuses everything and everyone here. As an artist, I aim to capture that essence in my work. My creative journey is deeply rooted in my southern heritage, and I bring that soulful atmosphere into every piece of art I produce. The subjects I choose to paint are usually those that remind me of my southern roots—the music, the people, the food, and the rich culture that is the heart and soul of New Orleans.

I work predominantly with oil varnishes and acrylics, often incorporating gold leaf to bring out the highlights and add a touch of extravagance. One of my unique approaches is using recycled material as my canvas. Unlike traditional canvases, recycled materials offer more texture and character, giving each piece a distinctive feel and story even before I lay down the first brushstroke. It's this blend of the old and new, the conventional and the unconventional, that I find truly inspiring.

My artistic style can be described as impressionistic, though some might lean towards calling it Contemporary Folk. I use quick, wide brush strokes with bursts of color and highlights to bring my subjects to life. The expressive nature of my work comes through in the vibrant hues I choose and the evocative scenes I depict. Each painting is a celebration of the South, a homage to the place that continues to inspire me every day.

Over the years, my work has found a home in numerous private collections across the United States and Europe. It's incredibly fulfilling to know that pieces of my heart and soul are spread out across the world, connecting with people from all walks of life. My journey as an artist is ever-evolving, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share a piece of New Orleans—its spirit, its culture, and its ineffable magic—through my art.

My passion for the South is not just something I talk about; it's something I live and breathe. It's evident in every stroke of my brush, every choice of color, and every subject I choose to depict. My art is my way of keeping the spirit of New Orleans alive and sharing it with the world. I invite you to take a step into my world, to feel the rhythm, taste the flavors, and see the colors of the South through my eyes.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Let's keep the spirit of New Orleans alive, one brushstroke at a time.