Kathrin Longhurst
Interview for Tawny Frogmouth from Kathrin’s Home / Studio, Brookvale
Northern Beaches resident Kathrin Longhurst has a journey as amazing as the works she creates. Born in East Germany, her path to becoming a professional artist wasn’t straightforward at all. Over a chat at her home/studio, Kathrin shared about her career, mission, and the power of art.
Growing up in East Germany, Kathrin faced limited prospects for pursuing art. "If I had stayed in East Germany, I would have ended up in industrial design," she said. However, fate had different plans and Kathrin moved to the West, initially pursuing a corporate career. Despite her success, her passion for art was always there and in 2003, she made the bold decision to leave the corporate world and dedicate herself fully to art.
Kathrin’s work is deeply influenced by her diverse experiences. "Having lived with propaganda art and socialist realism, and then seeing the world from both sides, I bring all of that to my work," she explains. Her art, rich with narratives of women’s stories, seeks to challenge and change the male-centric perspective that has dominated art history. She states: "History has been told by men. My mission is to change the narrative around women in art."
Her commitment to this mission is evident in her celebrated exhibitions and the recognition she has received. Notably, the Art Gallery of New South Wales invited her to speak about her portrayal of women, a testament to the impact of her work. A significant milestone was winning the Archibald Packing Room Prize in 2022. "Winning this meant my workload increased significantly, Kathrin shares, and presented incredible opportunities."
Kathrin's connection to Brookvale has been instrumental in her artistic development. "Brookvale has everything – the beach, cool venues, and a buzzing creative scene. It's been a huge factor in taking my career to the next level," she says. Her studio in Brookvale Arts District provided the space and inspiration needed to create her large-scale works and foster a community around her. Reflecting on the power of community and support in the artistic journey, she says "having a strong network around you is crucial. It’s what gets you through tough times."
Lately, Kathrin has expanded her artistic repertoire to include sculpture. This new medium, while challenging, has invigorated her creative process: "Sculpting is one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but it’s also incredibly rewarding."
Kathrin Longhurst is way more than an artist; she’s a storyteller, an advocate, a visionary. Her journey from a child in East Germany to a leading figure in the contemporary art world is a testament to her strength and passion. Through her art, she continues to challenge perceptions, inspire change, and empower women, making her a truly remarkable figure in the world of art.
Words: Miguel Gonzalez / Photos: Kayapa Creative Studio