Kate Holland, also known as Phoenix, grew up in a family that appreciated science and math over art. Originally, they were going to go to school for engineering but changed their mind at the last minute to illustration. Their mother, who had gone to school for photography, was the one who encouraged this change. Illustration was definitely the right choice of major for them, and they have not regretted going to art school.

Phoenix holds a strong love for the supernatural, which translates into their work. With their current focus being fantasy, Phoenix puts a great emphasis on line work and texture. Their love and enjoyment of creating small details are apparent in their pieces through diligent linework and repetitive patterns.

1920s Theme Self-Portrait
Digital
9in x 12in
A self-portrait of the artist laying on their back in a vintage dress. They are lounging on a vintage style couch, relaxed, with an arm and leg hanging over the side. Their hair, arm, and leg flow into a swirling pool of lines, teeth, and eyes.

Clown VS Clown
Watercolor and colored pencil on foamboard
9in x 12in
A silly piece that has a warrior clown facing off against a lion clown. The warrior clown had a balloon shield and balloon sword to fight with. The lion clown has a very round mane reminiscent of a clown’s afro, as well as face paint and a round, red nose.

Strzyga Snack
Digital
11in x 14in
A terrifying bird monster, also referred to as a strzyga, is feasting on the body of a person who happened to fall asleep with the window open. The room is dark, with no light other than the moon.

Mother’s Love
Digital
17 in x 11in
A mother sphynx is lounging with her cub, trying to give the cub a little kiss. The cub has pulled away, laughing and trying to avoid any more kisses from the mother.

Watcher of Earth
Watercolor and colored pencil on foamboard
12in x 10in
An ethereal, winged creature cradles a fawn close to her chest, while a flowing bowl of water is in her right hand, and her left hand produces a stream of flowers. Behind her bandaged head is the Earth.

Fiery Eclipse
Digital
14in x 11in
A wyvern is flying through the air, breathing down fire underneath them. The sun behind it is eclipsed, with the sky in the background turned a startling red.

First View of Spring
Digital
11in x 14in
A dryad, or wood nymph, is emerging from her tree after a long rest to find spring has arrived. She gazes up into the trees in wonder at the blossoming flowers that top the trees of the forest.