Today we’d like to introduce you to Kate Sory.
Hi Kate, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I think what has gotten me to where I am now is my imagination. I have always loved fantasy and creating my own worlds, so it was natural for me to start trying to translate those ideas visually. But it took me a while to realize that illustration was the road I wanted to go down. I have always loved history, theatre, and literature, but everything comes down to storytelling and art for me. Painting and drawing have always been natural passions to me, so being given the space and support to hone those skills has been an incredible gift.
My friends and family have also always been so supportive of my art and creativity, and I don’t think that I would have been confident enough in myself to pursue this line of work without them. I have so much love and gratitude towards the people in my life that have pushed me forward by simply loving what I love. They have shaped me as a person and what I am passionate about in major ways so thank you to everyone who loves and supports me.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
If I were to describe the road itself, it was a winding, steep downhill path that opened up into a six-lane freeway. The winding portion was deciding what I wanted to do, but there was so much momentum leading me to being an illustrator, storyteller, and world builder that it was always going to be where I landed. The problem with that path though is that there are so many incredibly talented people who want to do the same thing as me that I can often feel overwhelmed. It also makes for a really lovely community where everyone absolutely loves what they do and wants to support each other. Thankfully I have had so much support in so many ways that I’d say the road was at least devoid of potholes. And I love what I do so much that even when I feel overwhelmed, I have certainty of that passion.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an illustrator and visual development artist who loves anything fantasy. I care deeply about stories that can make a positive impact and promote kindness and learning. Currently, I am working on my first book all about a young owl wizard who has been isolated from the world and is thrust into exploring it. It’s a story about isolation, agency, self-confidence, and adventure set in a fantasy background built on folklore and institutional corruption. The form of the book is an illustrated diary of the main character Owlbert Almanac, where he describes his own journey in his own words. I am proud of and emotionally invested in this story and am excited to see how it develops.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I was a very independent child. I loved taking time to myself to explore my surroundings and my world. I would build fairy houses, draw maps of imaginary towns, and read tons and tons of books. No matter where I was, I would always find something to do or make or imagine. I was really shy though so my mom signed me up for community theatre. Which I loved! I was still shy, but it gave me a lifelong passion and great memories.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.katharinesory.com/
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/katesory
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharine-sory-58222013a/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/fatherkoot
Image Credits
Samantha Sciotti – personal photo
