Local artist, author & educator from Lake Macquarie, NSW Australia

Hi, I’m Kathy Langlade - artist, author and educator.

I am Australian born with a French/Chinese cultural background. I am a self taught artist whose work is influenced by children’s book illustrators and the culture of the1960s and 1970s.

I love all things vintage, fashion illustration, children’s picture books, Scandinavian design and colour.

I have explored various mediums over the years including acrylic paint, watercolour, pen and ink, mixed media, fabric and many forms of drawing. However in recent years, I have been drawn to the simplicity and effectiveness of paper craft. I love the process of cutting and pasting and using tactile materials to create a unique piece of art. 

My canvas works of dinosaurs in platform shoes combine unique subject matters that represent my love of nature and fashion. I use upcycled fabrics from op shops to create all my hand sewn dinosaurs.

I mainly work in flat, 2D imagery with a focus on patterns and colour to create a dynamic energy in my work.

I have self published two short comics, one picture book and an art instruction book. The comics were inspired by my Chinese heritage and work background as a food inspector. The picture book was inspired by the comics as well as vintage themes. The art instruction book- Brain Wave was born out of my art student’s love for various warm up exercises I use in my creative classes.

I held a solo exhibition of my papercraft artworks at the Charlestown Library in 2018. The works included paper crafted Australian animals as well as a series called Bondi Bunnies, featuring rabbits dressed in vintage clothing, in Bondi Beach settings with retro architecture.

I completed a Certificate IV in graphic design in 2017 and won a competition run by Hunter Design School to design wine bottle labels for a local winemaker.

I run general art classes that help people experience creativity, get to know more about themselves and challenge themselves in a fun and relaxed environment. I run ‘Brain Wave’ workshops which give people the opportunity to try exercises from the book in a guided group format.

I have connected with the local community by participating in art events, donating my books to organisations including Books4outback and the John Hunter hospital and hosting free workshops which have helped teenagers and adults learn about the comic making and children’s book process.

I hope you enjoy my art and books and that they inspire you in your own art journey.