Katherine Garratt was born in Toronto and is a contemporary, figurative artist. Drawing inspiration from global mythology, she creates paintings that explore the universal theme of paradise. In her work, she envisions a harmonious world where humans, animals, birds and sea life coexist seamlessly. With vibrant palettes and intricate compositions, she invites viewers to journey into her imagined paradise where they witness hybrid figures; a blend of human forms with elements of the natural world. With each painting, she hopes her work encourages reflection on our enduring human connection to nature.

Garratt's artistic style is deeply shaped by her classical and contemporary art education. Early classical training at Thornton Hall in Toronto, involved reproducing works by old masters including Rembrandt, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. This work gave her a strong technical foundation. She holds an Honours BFA in Visual Art from York University, Toronto where she studied with renowned artist and professor Hugh Leroy. He encouraged intuitive and symbolic approaches, inspired by Jungian archetypes, that led her to develop an intuitive painting process with mythological themes.

Garratt’s group exhibition history includes shows at Founders Gallery and The IDA Gallery, York University, Toronto; The Federation Gallery, Granville Island, Vancouver; The Surrey Art Gallery, Surrey; The Turnbull Gallery, Surrey; and Nomad Gallery, White Rock.

Garratt’s solo exhibition history includes shows in Vancouver and White Rock BC. In 2016, Artemis Gallery, North Vancouver, BC, exhibited “Mythos.” In 2024, Nomad Gallery, White Rock, BC exhibited "The Golden Age.” In 2025, Nomad Gallery exhibited “Our Mother Earth” and in 2025, The Gallery at Park Place, Downtown Vancouver, BC exhibited her solo exhibition sponsored by QuadReal and Helloart Inc. She is represented by Helloart Inc.

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

I am captivated by the enduring power of global mythology that recounts a time when the earth was a paradise untouched by discord. These diverse cultural narratives guide my work as I explore their relevance with contemporary motifs. My creative process involves immersing myself in their symbolism, which informs the figures, colours, and textures in my compositions. I strive to weave together imagery that conveys balance, peace, beauty, and a sense of belonging.