“A Day in the Life” with: Vancouver Multidisciplinary Artist Kim Brake

Kim Brake expresses her prolific creativity primarily through her paintings and poetry. Her creative vision exalts divine feminine power, fusing words and colours into a harmonious symphony to capture the essence of nature and the human spirit. Her large and colourful goddesses, dressed in costumes infused with natural elements, underscore our connection to Mother Earth. Dancing with nature’s secrets, her art proudly tries to make known that powerful feminine energy, reflecting the depth of her soul and the sensuality of her energy, embracing the magical darkness to light the way.

As a great artist and deep thinker, Kim draws attention to the need to regain harmony and balance in ourselves and in the world. Inviting self-reflection, her works are not just meant to be contemplated but to be experienced, as her healing stories resonate deeply with her audience.

Kim has also published a book of haiku and collaborated with other writers and artists to curate and create four anthologies. Beyond her art and poetry, Kim deeply values time in nature, practices yoga and enjoys precious moments with her two beloved teenage daughters. Her life and work reflect a devotion to beauty, spiritual connection and balance, inspiring those around her to see the world with eyes of wonder and reverence.

-Written by Will, digital graphic designer and good friend 

Kim Brake
In my kitchen studio! I’m holding a copy of my first book of poetry, “This Journey of Mine”. I like that it is blurred with movement. It’s telling me that my journey is far from over. Perhaps the best is yet to come!
Kim Brake
I greatly value my time in nature. Whether it’s hiking, kayaking or beachcombing, I need time to connect with the forests and ocean. In this photo, I’m hanging out with whiskey jacks at Cypress Mountain.
I was thrilled when my first piece sold right away at Pacific Art Market (the Vancouver location). It was a great and supportive environment to begin showcasing my work.
With published writer Linda Ge and host and published poet Marlo Browne for the last and very memorable poetry night at Pacific Arts Market -Art Gallery. It was a gods and goddess-themed night!
Some of the ladies of my monthly book club! I am so blessed to be surrounded by strong amazing women! I’m also fortunate to be a part of a lady’s hiking group.
With Co-founder Mariam Zohra D. of Surrey Muse. I’ll be giving a presentation at Surrey Muse in September!
Kim Brake
With Emma Justin of Art Spot for the upcoming Vancouver Under 100 Art Show (artist orientation)
Kim Brake
Reading my poetry from Faces of a Goddess at Brave Voices Open Mic, Brace Brewery, Port Moody. Photo by: Host Aaron Hunter

***

Which hood are you in?

Well between hiking and attending poetry events and art exhibits, I tend to be on the go and see the Greater Vancouver area as my backyard! Presently my kitchen has become my art studio and I’m based out of South Surrey, BC. I love that I can hear the birds chirping outside while I’m creating!

What do you do?

First and foremost, I’m focused on my healing. After breast cancer, numerous surgeries, cumulative stress and depression, I discovered the healing power of self-expression through the arts. Painting (acrylic on canvas), poetry and photography give voice to my inner self as I delve into healing deeply stored trauma. During my healing journey, I became somewhat of a recluse and it’s been good to get out there and meet like-minded people and creative souls. I was fortunate to connect with Pacific Arts Market (Vancouver location) this spring and it was a great and supportive way to finally start showcasing my art in public. They have since closed their doors but I’m looking forward to other ways of staying connected to their newly opened gallery in Ladysmith, Vancouver Island. As mentioned, I write poetry as well and I’ve been enjoying poetry events and I’m bravely attending open mics!

What are you currently working on?

I’m currently collaborating with several female artists and poets on the Faces of a Goddess Series. These books showcase art and poetry honouring divine feminine energy. The current theme is dark feminine rising and will explore aspects of the feminine psyche that have been muted, shamed and disregarded. I’m also honoured to be a featured artist for Surrey Muse (an interdisciplinary arts and literature presentation group). I’ll be giving a presentation at the Surrey Library- City Centre Branch on Sept 28 on my themes, inspirations and artistic process. I’m also excited to participate in the visual art exhibit for the Outsiders Arts Festival at the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre on October 11-13, 2024. I appreciate this opportunity as I live with an invisible disability. My art reveals divine feminine energy (with some nudity) as well as themes of breast cancer, healing and exploration of my sexuality, which isn’t so widely received by most public spaces. I’m also very excited to be selected by Art Spot to be a part of the Under 100 Art Show coming to Vancouver November 14-17, 2024. I’ve already begun creating pieces for this unique show which makes art accessible and affordable for those who might not otherwise purchase original paintings.

I really like that I have found personal outlets to help uncover deeper truths and my art gives me purpose and meaning. I’m also enjoying the pace of how opportunities are unfolding. It’s important that I not spread myself thin or become overwhelmed.

Where can we find your work?

You can find me on Instagram where I share my creative and healing journey. There you can find links to my books on Amazon. I also have selected prints available on the Pacific Arts Market online store. I hope you come out to the events I’ve mentioned. I am so grateful to these wonderful supporters of the arts.