I’m Moving! +New Malawian-Inspired Art

There’s so much going on at the moment. I’ll try not to be too long-winded…

First, I wanted to share some new Malawian-inspired art created recently. The largest piece by far is a mural I designed. It was painted in April and completed a few weeks ago.

My former UNFPA digital media student Alain Bulldor Bonane and I painted chitenje patterns as well as Malawian birds, animals, flora, and fauna to create a colorful quilted effect on a large 3D “Be Kind” metal sculpture.

This mural was created for BMIS International School in Lilongwe and it celebrates everything we love about our host country. Made with love by one expat and one refugee. We are both moving on soon and are glad to leave this behind. Zikomo Malawi!

Come see a mini video of us working on it to view it in 3D here.

To learn more about custom art, design, and commission projects that I do for individuals and organizations, please visit here.

Moving On? Mamma Mia!

It’s Rome 2.0 time! After 8 glorious years in Asia and Africa—meeting the most amazing people, embarking on adventures, and doing our best to be of service—my family and I have recently felt the winds of change blowing us back to Italy for Round 2.

(Those who know me remember that we lived there from 2006-2016…) There’s lots to do and organize, but we plan to be there in less than 2 months, just in time for the hot and sticky weather!

Nothing will change in terms of my Ma Kalulu Studio activities or my training and design consulting work as I’m (thankfully) a location-independent kind of gal.

I do look forward to continuing to collaborate with old friends and colleagues worldwide as well as doing some in-person art, design, and training in la bella Roma.

See you there? Leave a comment below or contact me if you would like to meet up or work together in the not so distant future.

New Malawian-Inspired Art -Mixed Media Drawings

Happy (belated) birthday Taurus! ♉️ This is my latest drawing (pictured above in the lower right corner) that I made for you. It has symbols and patterns from every continent. You can read more about the symbols and cultures depicted here.

I also recently completed (pictured below): The Birthday

This is a drawing influenced by stained glass, textiles, and weaving, which invites viewers to embrace a broader perspective on age and value.

It features the silhouette of a woman on her birthday, encircled by patterns from cultures renowned for revering their eldest members, especially women. Please see the full description to read about the cultures represented.

Now Playing: New Mentorship Group for Artists

Before I sign off, I’m thrilled to announce the launch of a new mentorship group that started in May. This group is your gateway to mastering the art of business—from efficient studio management and financial diversity to navigating the digital landscape with AI and tech tools. If you’re looking to elevate your art and find new avenues of income, this is the place for you.

And last but not least, Congratulations to PATRICIA who WON my April giveaway of a fine art print!

Thanks to all who participated in the drawing! If you’d like to enter this month, please CLICK HERE.

Well, that’s all for now. Thanks as always for keeping up with my art and teaching. Wishing you all the best!

Sincerely,
Kristen

P.S. Still thinking about adding positive, vibrant energy to your living or workspace so you feel and perform at your best?

Here are 4 other ways that I can help you:

1. Affordable Art Perfect for Gifting: Ma Kalulu Studio’s Gift Shop

2. Self-Paced Online Courses: Learn Art, Design, Creativity, Color Tricks & More

3. Done For You Services: Bespoke Custom Art & Design Made to Order

4. Win a FREE Art Print From Ma Kalulu Studio. Enter This Month’s Drawing.