Artist Bio

Kayla’s work introduces a dance between conceptual art, scattered but intricate linework, lively realism portraits and folk art style caricatures based on and inspired by stories, themes, conversations, neighborhood icons, culture, words and painted figures found in the heart of South Central. With a B.F.A in Illustration with a minor in Social Impact Design from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena and a MAED in Art from University of Phoenix, Kayla uses her community work, adoration of Black culture and experience and time teaching in the classroom, fused with studying the stories of the locals, highlighting issues and necessary social conversations in every aspect of her artwork. From a linework piece, to a painting or sewn work – she uses art to share a message and influence, inspire ideas about how we should be visually captured and tries to capture and communicate the different angles of beauty to Black bodies. In addition to working with youth, organizing community outreach and programming, Kayla has birthed Coloured Art Studio Nonprofit which is focused on bringing access to an enriched Black and Brown centered Arts Education program to South Central youth. Her people have been at the core of her work inside and outside of the studio for 10+ years.