MEET THE ARTISTS
Allyson Williams-Yee, Studio Manager
Allyson is a practicing painter and illustrator. Her paintings, very dream-like in nature, focus on the mysterious and spiritual while her illustrations are more straightforward, colorful and fun. Currently, she is collaborating with writers on different projects, including illustrating poetry and children’s books. Allyson’s passion lies in oil painting, however, she loves exploring the use of other mediums. Working for Kathy has introduced Allyson to the world of jewelry and to another new, artistic medium, which she will translate into her own work.
Vanessa Walilko, Senior Production Assistant
Vanessa has always needed to do something with her hands, and working for Kathy has provided her many opportunities to keep her fingers busy. Giving up research and office work, Vanessa decided to pursue an artistic lifestyle that appeals more to her bohemian sensibilities. Not only does Vanessa work as a production assistant for Kathy and another jewelry designer, but she also runs her own business, Gianessa Designs www.gianessadesigns.com.
Katie Lime, Production Assistant
Katie received her BFA from Indiana University Bloomington in 2006. She moved to Chicago to pursue her interests in jewelry making and metalsmithing. Her current work focuses on groupings of delicate forms, simplified refined shapes, and the soft quality of silk fibers. She is inspired by the natural world surrounding her: flowers, plants, blossoms, fungi, coral reefs, and sea life.
Kate McLeod, Production Assistant
Originally from Montgomery, AL, Kate is getting her Masters of Art Education from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. While her passions lay in community work and teaching, she is also a practicing artist. Her interests include combining the whimsical with the mundane through watercolors of animal portraits, stuffed animals dressed in chainmaille armor, and anthropomorphic books.