Katy L. Casillas-Gray is a passionate artist and co-owner of The Painted Moth, a creative venture in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her artistic journey began with a degree in art education, leading to a career as an art teacher. Over the years, Katy's path has been diverse, including roles as a hair salon owner, esthetician, and entrepreneur in the healthy snack food industry. Throughout these experiences, her dedication to art remained steadfast.
In her forties, Katy fully embraced her creative passions, co-founding The Painted Moth with her best friend, Theresa Henson. What started as a small booth showcasing Katy's original artwork and handmade items has blossomed into a thriving business that supports local artists and small businesses. The Painted Moth serves as a creative haven where artists and makers can collaborate, learn, and grow, fostering a supportive community that celebrates the beauty of handmade goods.
Katy's artistic vision is to evoke positive emotions through her abstract and figurative creations. She utilizes a kaleidoscope of colors and diverse media, layering her canvases to express her inner experiences. Her hope is that her art, poetry, and classes inspire others to see beauty in their world, choose courage over fear, and treat themselves and others with love.
Katy's accomplishments as an artist include her first solo art exhibit, "Pieces of Her," held in 2023 at the Positive Space Gallery. She has also shown her work at notable venues, including Nuu Muse Gallery in Dallas, AHHA in Tulsa, TAC Gallery, and the Native Exchange in Oklahoma City. Katy regularly participates in festivals and generously donates her artwork to auctions and fundraisers, reflecting her dedication to supporting her community.
Beyond her artistic endeavors, Katy is committed to building a community where creativity thrives. The Painted Moth aspires to be more than just a marketplace; it aims to be a source of inspiration, a curator of stories, and a catalyst for moments of joy and beauty. By collaborating with talented artisans from diverse backgrounds, both locally and globally, The Painted Moth unleashes creativity, connects souls, and expands horizons.