An Inspired Chat with Kat Whaley (Kat Ash Illustration)

We recently had the chance to connect with Kat Whaley (Kat Ash Illustration) and have shared our conversation below.

Kat, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
My husband and I welcomed our first child just over a year ago, and spending time with her along with my husband has been bringing me so much joy and perspective lately. She has a way of reminding me about the value of being present…whether that’s soaking up the little moments of watching her being engaged and enthralled by something, appreciating simple times, or finding strength to keep moving forward. It’s been a wonderful reminder of gratitude and balance outside of work.

The second thing would be music. Music brings me back to myself and always inspires me to be who I want to be at my deepest core. It helps me tap into my emotions and what I am currently feeling. It makes me feel fluid and problem solve through current struggles and obstacles we all deal with in this life. Even being a newer mom, I still try to go to concerts when I am able, and I am thankful for that time that feels sacred, spiritual and like a renewed awakening each time.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am an Atlanta based artist and illustrator, with experience in mural designs. I like to think of my creative journey as tapestry woven from diverse experiences because it took me awhile to realize this was the route for myself. I hold a Master of Fine Arts degree in Illustration from the Savannah College of Art and Design, where my work initially focused on mood, light, and texture-driven elements.

I had the privilege of contributing to Cultivation Brewing Co. from its inception, where I helped establish its visual identity through murals, social media, and website branding while also engaging closely with the community. This experience expanded my practice beyond the page, allowing me to explore product design, photography, and brand development. I continue to illustrate can designs, create branding assets, and provide photography for the brewery, while also pursuing freelance design work that spans editorial, poster, and private client commissions on the side.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was always a creative at heart… though I didn’t yet see the full potential of that side of me. Early on, I thought maybe I should pursue teaching, especially in early childhood education, because it seemed to fit my quiet and “maybe I should-be-nurturing” nature being a woman who grew up in the South. But once I was in the classroom with a bunch of kids (sweat emoji), I knew it wasn’t the right path. Shoutout to Georgia College for getting you in the classroom right away! From there, I did finish a degree in studio art and then explored different directions for my life thereafter. I helped my dad with his restaurant dream, worked in the wine industry, and even considering a path toward becoming a sommelier. I initially got hired on to become a beverage manager as well. Each of those experiences gave me something valuable — discipline, hospitality and an eye for detail. However, none of them gave me the deep sense of fulfillment I was longing for.

It wasn’t until my late 20s, when I applied somewhat impulsively to SCAD for illustration from a simple book illustration commission, that things shifted. I didn’t know if I’d even get in. This is because my portfolio was made up of older, foundational artwork. But I was accepted, and that leap of faith completely changed my trajectory. For the first time, I felt like I was investing in the part of myself that had been there all along. I’m a people pleaser at heart, so this really was a big move for me. Even on the hardest days, when imposter syndrome hits hard, I’d rather wrestle with while pursuing illustration than succeed in something that didn’t light me up. That’s when I realized that being a visual illustrator wasn’t just something I enjoyed. The person I’ve always been finally bloomed.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Several times, actually because I’m so competitive with myself…whether it’s not being the smartest or most talented person in the room has always pushed me to work harder. I know now though that I need that if I’m going to level up. I need to be pushed and challenged. I still remember those early SCAD classes, sometimes walking out with tears whelped in my eyes, thinking, “What the actual hell am I doing?” I’d compare myself to students who already had digital art degrees, illustration work experience, and advanced photoshop skills. I felt so far behind. More than once, I questioned if I should quit, and I’m thankful I didn’t. The professors there really honored the current skills I had at that time and wanted me to always hone in on MY style…to not conform to someone else’s creative voice. That really kept me going and I’m forever thankful for them. I was my own worst enemy!

Even before going back to school at 27, I had those doubts while working long shifts in restaurants through part of my bachelor’s and all the way to finishing my master’s. Customers would ask me, “So what are you going to do with that?” when I mentioned art or illustration as if it wasn’t real or a tangible future like becoming a lawyer or doctor. Those moments could be crushing. I’d leave feeling defeated, but they also lit a fire under me. I carried that push back with me into the late nights of designing.

Even today, I run into that same imposter syndrome before posting artwork online, sending a client file, or finalizing a design for the brewery. The difference is, I handle it better now. I remind myself that those doubts will naturally creep in, but I’m incredibly lucky to be where I am, doing this work. I think of my mentors pushing me, my husband supporting me, my family, and most of all…my daughter Charlie, who I hope will look up to me one day for it.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
I’d say my public or professional self is very much me regarding my values, taste, problem-solving, and drive. These characteristics are definitely parts of who I am. However, they are not the entire me. In a professional or public space, I try to communicate and be extremely thoughtful/self aware, and represent myself in a way that hopefully builds a foundation with the other person…for us both.

Behind closed doors though, I let the rest of me out, the weird, deepest insecurities, spirituality, reflective side, to those I deeply trust. I sing loudly(sometimes opera), dance old ballet routines in my kitchen, and have moments of in-depth life talks with loved ones in that safe space. It takes awhile to 100% come out of my shell, but once I do…I’m all there!

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That they felt loved, important and wanted.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.katashillustration.com
• Instagram: katash_illustrationart
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katashillustration/

Image Credits
My photography!