Kate Smith smiling

Meet artist Kate Smith. Kate is the driving force behind the New Forest Marque Inspired category, encouraging and coordinating the collective with her spark and passion. An artist in her own right – the face behind Kate Smith Prints, Kate is a talented printmaker. A native of the New Forest, Kate loves to explore the beauty of nature through her art, from birds to badgers to ferns and fungi.

Kate studied Arts Management at university, where she learned how to organise events and curate exhibitions. Afterwards, she dabbled in visual merchandising, whilst creating art for enjoyment in her spare time. With practice, she made more and more linocut art until she was able to pursue it part-time. Now, she teaches classes and sells her work locally.

In 2023 Kate applied for the position with the Marque because it was the perfect combination of creativity, social interaction, and events. She explains,

‘I feel fortunate to represent some of the best artists in the New Forest and to support emerging talent through routes to market, exhibitions, and providing a space for a community to grow.’

Having lived in the New Forest for five years, Kate finds it just as magical now as it was when she first arrived. She recalls visiting as a child and being in awe of the landscape and animals. The natural beauty of the area directly inspires her art.

Kate believes that New Forest Marque Inspired is crucial because it helps support local makers and artists during a time when mass-produced products from overseas are becoming more prevalent. These cheaper alternatives often undercut local businesses and threaten their livelihood. Inspired provides not only selling opportunities but also a community—what Kate calls a “hive mind”—where knowledge is shared and artists can support one another to thrive.

Find out more about New Forest Marque Inspired and how you can join here.

To see more of Kate’s work visit her website, Facebook or Instagram.