About

Katrine Burkitt is a MassArt graduate, receiving her BFA in Painting and the Studio for Interrelated Media (SIM) in 2009.

When I paint, everything slows down. I squint to simplify what I see, shifting quickly between the canvas and the subject. I love working during the magic hour—the warm light, long shadows, and the quiet urgency of racing the setting sun.

Painting landscapes is my way of honoring the subtle beauty of New England. Plein air work helps balance the pace of city life; it's a form of active meditation for me. Not every painting succeeds—far from it—but the practice of observing and trying to capture something essential matters most.

I’ve always felt a strong pull toward connecting with people, and portrait painting is one of the most intimate ways I do that. A good portrait requires trust and ease. If I can reflect even a piece of someone’s personality or strength, I consider it a success. Out of more than a hundred portraits from life, only a few feel truly complete to me.

I start with a large palette (15-20+ colors), mixing until they match what I see. Once I begin, I work fast, aiming to finish in one sitting. If I run out of time, I start fresh rather than relying on photographs. Many sitters tell me the experience feels grounding and enjoyable, which matters to me as much as the final painting.

In addition to painting, I’m a professional organizer and the founder of Sunnyside Organizing, where I help people create calm, functional, and joyful spaces. Whether with a brush or through organizing, my goal is simple: to bring clarity, honesty, and care to the work I do. I draw inspiration from my surroundings—my neighborhood in Jamaica Plain, the landscapes of the Arnold Arboretum, and the friends who’ve sat for me over the years.