In the cozy, art-filled corners of Pittsburgh, Kayla Kaminski, known professionally as Kayla Kirsch Design, is transforming pop art into a vibrant, whimsical journey. A Pittsburgh native, Kayla’s work has long captured the hearts of many with its bold colors and cheerful energy. Her artistic style, which she describes as “Pop Art meets whimsy,” reflects her bright and dynamic personality.
Kayla’s journey into the art world wasn’t without its challenges. “My successes as an artist have been downplayed before. Some people don’t consider it ‘real work,’ and they don’t see the hours of frustration and emotion that go into creating something,” she explains. But these struggles have only fueled her passion and resilience, qualities that shine through in every piece she creates.
Her latest work, a piece created for the exhibit “A Flight of Empowerment,” is particularly close to her heart. The exhibit, which aims to celebrate women’s empowerment through art, has given Kayla an opportunity to express her admiration for the women in her life who inspire her daily. “My mother, my sister and sister-in-law, my friends and coworkers—all of them are magnificent people who’ve gone through so much to achieve their dreams. They inspire me constantly,” she shares.
The piece Kayla is contributing to the exhibit reflects her deep respect for the strength and determination of women throughout history and in her own life. “My piece is based on the premise that women have had to fight to be heard or noticed, both historically and in everyday life. We are fierce, determined, and not going away,” she says with conviction. Through her art, Kayla hopes to make a statement about the ongoing fight for equality and recognition. Her use of bold colors and animal imagery is symbolic of this ferocity and determination.
The concept of empowerment is not just a theme in her art; it’s a personal journey for Kayla as well. “To me, ‘Flight of Empowerment’ means traveling through the eyes of others to view their struggles and successes and how they’ve accomplished their own goals,” she explains. Her art, much like the women she admires, embodies the resilience and vibrant spirit of those who continue to strive for their dreams despite the odds.
Kayla’s connection to the exhibit runs deeper than just her artwork. She was introduced to the exhibit through her friend and mentor, Desiree Vuocolo, founder of LocalGood. “Desiree has been a mentor to me in the marketing aspect of my art career. She introduced me to Debbie at Songbird Artistry, and through that connection, I became involved in this empowering exhibit,” Kayla says.
As Kayla prepares to showcase her work, she reflects on the role art plays in society. “Art has the power to impact society by reflecting our struggles, triumphs, and aspirations. It’s a way to communicate messages that words sometimes can’t,” she says. Through her contributions to “A Flight of Empowerment,” Kayla hopes to inspire others and continue the conversation about women’s rights and equality. In her world of whimsical, bright, and cheerful designs, Kayla Kirsch Design is not just creating art; she’s making a statement—a colorful, powerful statement about the strength and beauty of women’s empowerment.
Kayla Kirsch will be part of an upcoming exhibition at one of LocalGood’s partner galleries, Songbird Artistry, titled “Flight of Empowerment”. The show will run from September 13th through the end of the year. For more information, please visit Songbird Artistry’s website here.