Meet Kristen Herrington | Artist, Podcaster, Gallery Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kristen Herrington and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kristen, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
Growing up in a small farming community in rural Nova Scotia was a life marked by simplicity, but it came with moments that profoundly shaped who I am today. I remember one late night when our neighbor called to share the exciting news that one of his cows was giving birth. He asked if we’d like to come over and watch, and as kids, we eagerly jumped at the chance. That night, witnessing a new life enter the world, the farmer decided to name the calf “Kristen” in my honor. It’s funny, but even now as an urban adult, the memory fills me with a unique kind of pride, connecting my roots to my present. It’s a reminder of where I came from, even as I embraced dreams beyond our town of fewer than a hundred people. I’d sit on our shag-carpeted stairs, pretending they were the seats of a New York City subway, daydreaming about life in places that felt impossibly distant. Those little moments—both whimsical and real—sparked a sense of adventure and courage that has stayed with me, shaping me into the unafraid, daring woman I am today.

My family life bridged two very different worlds. My grandfather was our local politician, and my mother worked in government. This juxtaposition of farm life and public life exposed me to everything from tending animals to attending galas and public events. I learned how to present myself in the limelight and developed a knack for stepping into different versions of myself depending on the occasion. In fact, for nearly a decade, I pursued a career in politics, but eventually, the call to a creative life became too strong. Looking back, I see how those early experiences prepared me to build the business and artistic life I have now—one that combines grit, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for community.

My parents also imparted lessons that continue to inform both my life and my art. My mother taught me kindness, compassion, and the importance of trusting my instincts, while my father encouraged me to embrace life’s lighter side, to travel, and not to take everything so seriously. Together, they provided a unique “toolbox” of traits that have helped me navigate the challenges and triumphs of a life as an artist. Growing up in one of Canada’s poorest provinces taught me resilience and inspired my imagination to thrive in ways I never anticipated. Surrounded by hardworking farmers, I absorbed a “nothing is impossible” mindset, even though a life as an artist once felt out of reach. Today, as I reflect on my journey—one that’s taken me to places far beyond that small town—I recognize that everything I am, and all that I create, is rooted in the people and places that shaped me. It’s the foundation of my art, and it’s what keeps me connected to the community that raised me, no matter where life takes me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets my art apart is, quite simply, me. While every artist might say the same, I’ve come to recognize that true artistry comes from deep self-awareness, commitment to personal growth, and the courage to let identity drive the creative process. I’ve invested heavily in these areas of my life—whether through reading, collaboration, or mentorship—and I’ve learned to release anything that no longer supports my vision. My work may be abstract in form, but beneath the colors and shapes lies an unmistakable message and a piece of my soul, which I hope resonates with others.

Adapting to the ups and downs of an artist’s life has taken time. It’s easy to get sidetracked by outside opinions, trends, or the pursuit of profit. Yet, one of the most valuable lessons I’ve absorbed at a soul level is that integrity to the art itself is what matters most. If a project calls to be created, there’s a reason for it. The process might not make sense at first, but trusting the work and letting it guide me can be incredibly liberating. This approach is where creativity becomes truly exhilarating; it reveals pieces of my inner self, weaving a tapestry of truths that often surface before I consciously recognize them.

On a tangible level, I enjoy expanding the lifespan of my artwork by incorporating it into functional pieces. I often photograph my paintings and transfer these images onto fabric, creating items like yoga mats, leggings, or even reupholstered vintage furniture. Each vintage piece is inspired by a senior citizen who has influenced my life, adding a storytelling element that feels essential to my creative process. Beyond the visual arts, I also have a deep love for podcasting and the art of conversation. With nearly 150 interviews with other artists, I’ve begun to notice recurring themes and commonalities, providing me with comfort, insight, and regular inspiration.

I want the world to know that this is only the beginning. The work I’ve created so far is the foundation of a vision I’m still building—a castle with no ceiling, designed and refined through endless possibilities in this artistic world. I am excited to see where the journey continues to take me.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Halifax, Nova Scotia is growing at an incredible rate, transforming from a cozy, small-town-feel city into one of Canada’s fastest-growing urban centers. Yet, Halifax retains a unique charm that sets it apart. We’re rich in creativity, kindness, and diversity—qualities that make our community both welcoming and inspiring. Sure, we may not have all the amenities or infrastructure of larger European or American cities, but that’s part of the Maritime appeal. Our warmth and resourcefulness lend Halifax a character all its own, blending old-town charm with a thriving, contemporary art and culture scene.

If my best friend from out of town were visiting for a week, I’d have a perfect itinerary lined up to showcase Halifax’s magic. The waterfront would be our first stop, where we’d stroll along the boardwalk, taking in the public sculptures, fantastic restaurants, and interactive spaces filled with local vendors. This strip is unbeatable for people-watching and discovering unique small businesses. We’d follow that up with live music at some of my favorite local venues, like the Seahorse Tavern or The Carleton—both legendary spots that capture Halifax’s musical heartbeat. Thrifting on Queen Street would be next on the list, with a coffee break at The Wired Monk and a relaxing stroll through the Public Gardens.

Naturally, I’d bring my friend to Togetherland, my art gallery on the picturesque Saint Margarets Bay. For a true Maritime experience, we’d stay at Wilson’s Coastal Club, where wood-fired hot tubs and a sauna await, perfect for winding down. Evenings would include classy cocktails at Black Harbour and a live performance at the Chester Playhouse. Lately, I’m drawn to quieter, nature-inspired activities, so I’d suggest a hike along Rails to Trails, and maybe a refreshing cold plunge at Hubbards Beach. And, of course, we’d cap off at least one night with a cozy evening in—pajamas, a crackling fire, and a bottle of Benjamin Bridge’s Nova7 wine, toasting to the beauty of Halifax. Please, can we make this visit happen?!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’ve been fortunate to cross paths with many remarkable people—friends, mentors, and leaders—who have each played a role in my journey to becoming an artist. Former colleagues from my days in politics taught me invaluable skills: confidence in communication, poise in public speaking, and the patience to handle both the big and small moments with grace. Friends would often say things like, “I wish you could see yourself like we do,” and in time, I began to see myself through their eyes. This shift helped me recognize strengths I hadn’t always valued in myself. My father’s confidence in me was unwavering; he’d say he never worried about my landing on my feet. He trusted that with my work ethic, values, and experiences, I’d find my way. That belief has been a steady source of strength, anchoring me through periods of uncertainty.

The person who truly inspired the courage to call myself an artist, though, is my husband, Michael Ryan. As a lifelong musician, Mike understands the creative lifestyle and the vast potential it holds if one leans into possibility. He saw my talent even before I did and encouraged me to take the leap from the stability of academia and corporate life into entrepreneurship. His constant encouragement helped me embrace a path that can sometimes be unpredictable, especially when the sacrifices are financial. But Mike is a grounding force, always reminding me that the experiences and freedoms we share are worth it. Together, we’ve built a life around creativity, co-authoring a book, hosting our weekly podcast “Mike and Kristen,” and traveling the world as a creative duo. This partnership has not only deepened our marriage but has also fueled my confidence to keep forging ahead on this extraordinary journey.

I’m endlessly grateful for Mike’s encouragement, love, and steadfast belief in me. He’s helped me to see that the risks are part of the reward and that the artist’s life, with all its twists and turns, is worth every step. This life, shared with friends, mentors, and my greatest champion, reminds me that we never truly create alone. It’s the community of support that empowers us to be our truest, most daring selves.

Website: https://kristenherringtonart.com/

Instagram: hhttps://www.instagram.com/kristenherrington.art/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-herrington-2862939b/

Other: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/mike-and-kristen/id1613542302

Image Credits
Candice Moore