Kathleen Joelle McCarthy

Born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in La Mesa, California, outside of San Diego, Kathleen Joelle has a Masters in Counseling Psychology. She’s had some art skill training but is mostly self-taught. 

In 2006, Kathleen Joelle attended a Scratchboard workshop to develop her love of art. Since she had been a hairdresser most of her early life to support her education, the medium was a perfect fit because it mirrored the haircutting process.  Turns out she was a natural.

"Happiness is not something you postpone for the future; it is something you design for the present."

Jim Rohn

Throughout the various subjects, she found wildlife (and animals in general) to be a wonderful complement to this art medium. When Kathleen Joelle began experimenting with pet portraits her passion flourished.  More than 70 commissions later, she still gets thrilled bringing out the soul of the animal. 

“Animals are universally appreciated for their human characteristics---love, excitement, companionship, humor, personality and uniqueness.”

Her motivation as an Artist is to freeze frame a moment in creation for us to ponder the depth of our encounter.  Whether it is a blossoming flower or a horse’s docile glance, every scratch contributes to a soul-transforming experience.

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