Local StoriesJuly 9, 2026

Conversations with Kari Thurmond

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kari Thurmond.

Hi Kari, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Growing up, my father blew glass and built abstract aluminum public art sculptures at Railroad Square Art Park in Tallahassee, FL. I was in awe of this work and it was the catalyst for me to have the lifelong desire to create artwork. I took a 2D art class in college wherein I created my first paper cutting. I was heavily inspired by the Art History classes I took in college, from these classes I began to have a greater drive to create my abstract paper cuttings.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Life always has ups and downs and no one is perfect. Overall I can’t really complain. I have always had a drive to create, so keeping momentum and seeing projects through to the end comes naturally. I always want to grow and improve so I feel at all times my best work or something new is just around the corner.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My work primarily consists of hand-cut abstract paper cuttings. I incorporate cut cellophane in some of my work. I like creating hand-made work, what I create feels more uniquely me and I have more of a connection with it.
I love contrast and bright pops of color. Each work is created by stacking cut layers.
When I begin a new piece I never know how they will look when complete. I start with the color I want to work with and create my “base” layer, I base all other layers off this first layer. It’s an intuitive process that develops out of curiosity.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Having a unique vision, setting goals and making bold but informed choices are all really important to me. I lean into values I was taught from a young age: Find out who I am and what I like and never follow trends.

Contact Info:

Website: https://www.karithurmondart.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karithermoart/

Two framed abstract art pieces with curved lines and geometric shapes in green, black, and purple on a white background.

Colorful abstract design with black, blue, yellow, and red elements, featuring lines, shapes, and jagged edges.

Abstract colorful design with curved lines and shapes on a dark background, resembling a stylized face or profile.

Colorful abstract design with curved lines and shapes, symmetrical pattern, and red circular accents, on a white background.

Close-up of a colorful, abstract mural with curved lines and geometric shapes, including pink, purple, black, and red elements.

Close-up of a colorful, abstract design with green, blue, and red elements, and a textured background.

Close-up of colorful layered paper or cardboard artwork with abstract shapes and patterns.

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