Meet Kimberly Montes | Designer & Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kimberly Montes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kimberly, why did you pursue a creative career?
I chose a creative and artistic path because I recognized it as the most effective way for me to learn and thrive. From a young age, I excelled in art and creativity, knowing it was my true calling. Honoring my late brother, who was also an artist, became a powerful motivator to keep his artistic dreams alive through my own creations. After attending art school, my dream for knowledge grew, leading me to delve into interior design, fulfilling a long-standing desire. Despite finding fulfillment in the field, I felt a void in my creative expression, compounded by my passion for teaching. Determined to merge my three loves – teaching, art, and design – I founded Youth Design Philly, bringing them together in a meaningful way.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The synergy between my art and non-profit work is evident. I often explore the concepts of space and time, crafting environments that range from safe and fun to wild, influenced by my mood, clients, and the setting. My artwork features women with emotional depth or a strong sense of confidence, a reflection of my own struggles with confidence and people-pleasing as a teen and adult. Representing these exposed and diverse figures brings a sense of freedom that I personally wouldn’t undertake. I look up to these women, aspiring to embody their confidence. Nature is a recurring theme, bringing joy to my life as someone who grapples with various emotions. Imaginary landscapes often depict places I yearn for, especially mountains, given my urban upbringing. The connection to YDP is evident in my emphasis on creating sanctuary spaces, acknowledging that some students lack a safe haven.
Growing up with limited resources also meant space was limited in a house for 5. During my childhood, I had a compact cot, a fold-up bed, which remained my sleeping arrangement until I turned 13. I cherished it because there was nothing more enjoyable to me than transforming my bed into various things. Despite financial challenges, I took pride in making the most of what I had. I am most proud of overcoming struggles to become a successful artist, creator, and businesswoman, defying stereotypes associated with the way I grew up.
Professional growth came from recognizing what I didn’t want to be and pushing towards my potential. Lessons learned include not needing to please everyone, embracing breaks, finding joy in the work, and staying authentic. Kmontes Art and Youth Design Philly reflects my unwavering dedication and passion. I want the world to know that everything I’ve done has been driven by love, care, and a deep passion for both my art and my students.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my closest friends were here, I’d guide them through the delightful attractions in Philadelphia. We’d begin our day in the morning with a cup of coffee in the Germantown area, exploring the Wissahickon before heading down to the Schuylkill River. Along the way, we’d visit enjoyable spots such as the Reading Terminal Market and the art museum, possibly making a detour to historic Old City Philadelphia. Our day would culminate by the Delaware River, soaking in all the natural beauty that Philadelphia has to offer, especially in the spring.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are numerous individuals to express gratitude to for my success, starting with my incredible mother – one of the most hardworking and truly magical women I’ve ever known. Reflecting on how she raised me and my two brothers with so little is genuinely inspiring. My family and friends also deserve thanks for their unwavering support in all my artistic pursuits. A special acknowledgment goes to my many art teachers who imparted the skills I possess. Lastly, the most significant shout-out goes to my dedicated team at YDP and our supportive community members, consistently championing the mission and the impact we make for our students every day.

Website: https://kimberlymontes.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kmontes_art/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-montes-ms-bfa-5a9507132/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KMONTES_ART

Other: https://youthdesignphilly.org/ https://www.instagram.com/youthdesignphilly https://www.facebook.com/YouthDesignPhilly/

Image Credits
Photos By Myself and friend The Photos of myself are taken by my friend Kashief Butler whose logo shows up https://www.noseypalate.com/