Kathy Santen

BIOGRAPHY

Kathy was born and raised in St. Louis, MO and received a BS in Theatre from Northwestern University.  She was a professional actor for over 40 years, appearing in theatres around the country, including 17 years on Broadway in “Les Miserables” and “Wicked”.   She’s been a maker ever since she can remember, learning to sew from her Mom at an early age.  Kathy’s also always been a scavenger, appreciating the flotsam and jetsam of life.  It wasn’t until she retired from the theatre that she combined the two (making and scavenging) to explore mixed media assemblage.  Her work has been seen at Upfront Exhibition Space,  Delaware Valley Arts Alliance, ARTery Gallery, WomensWork Art and Wurstbuto Wares. She’s also been featured in the publications Assembla Magazine, Peter’s Valley Members’ Showcase, Artskill Catskill and The Catskiller.  Kathy lives in Shohola, PA with her playwright husband Sean.

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

I’ve always been drawn to the old, the discarded, the once-loved.  There are so many stories in those bits of paper, wood and metal that are headed to oblivion.  In our home, my husband and I are surrounded by vintage, and it never stops talking to me!  I began to realize that I could make new stories from these old ones, stories of humanness, womanhood and life on our dear planet.  By combining castoffs in new ways–with love, humor, and an open heart–I hope that others will also appreciate that everything, everyone has a tale to tell. 

Instagram: @sayitwithsalvage

Email: sayitwithsalvage@gmail.com

Instagram: @sayitwithsalvage

Email: sayitwithsalvage@gmail.com