M. Kathryn Thompson

Novato, CA

I have been an illustrator for 30 years. Growing up in Fairfax where I now live, I have found inspiration for my work in people, nature, food and animals. I've drawn ever since I could hold a pencil, it was probably actually a crayon. I chose a career in the graphic arts and moved to Seattle where I attended the Art Institute of Seattle. After working in print design and production I returned to the San Francisco Bay Area and followed a path of illustration which is my passion. I work in Scratchboard, a soft clay-coated board that's covered with black ink. Using an Exacto knife I scratch away the black to reveal the white underneath. Then I airbrush transparent acrylic ink onto the piece and go back in to scratch away color and create highlights.

M. Kathryn Thompson

mkathrynthompson.com

I have been an illustrator for 30 years. Growing up in Fairfax where I now live, I have found inspiration for my work in people, nature, food and animals. I've drawn ever since I could hold a pencil, it was probably actually a crayon.

I chose a career in the graphic arts and moved to Seattle where I attended the
Art Institute of Seattle. After working in print design and production I returned to
the San Francisco Bay Area and followed a path of illustration which is my passion.

I work in Scratchboard, a soft clay-coated board that's covered with black ink.
Using an Exacto knife I scratch away the black to reveal the white underneath.
Then I airbrush transparent acrylic ink onto the piece and go back in to scratch
away color and create highlights.

I recently did the illustrations on nine beer labels for Iron Springs Pub and Brewery.
My illustrations have been used in advertising and editorial work such as food and wine
packaging, outdoor gear, logos, cookbooks, magazines, street banners, brochures and posters. Some of the publications that I've done covers for are the Pacific Sun, Yoga Journal, Bay Area Natural Pages and the California State Parks Association.

Graduated: The Art Institute of Seattle, graduated top of my class
Received the Zallinger Award for Excellence in Illustration
Silver Medal in the 1997 San Francisco Society of Illustrators Annual Show
Judges Choice in the 1997 San Francisco Society of Illustrators Annual Show
Four time winner of the Fairfax Festival poster contest

Shows:
Marin General Hospital, Greenbrae, CA
Lincoln Park, San Anselmo, CA
Atrium Gallery, Greenbrae, CA
Gallery 305 Fine Art, Mill Valley, CA
Fairfax Public Library, Fairfax, CA
The Depot, Mill Valley, CA


Professional Affiliations:
San Francisco Society of Illustrators
International Society of Scratchboard Artists

Website: mkathrynthompson.com
Email: mkathrynthompson@comcast.net
Cell: 415.446.8701
Studio: 415.459.8835