Life is very unpredictable. A sudden bad incident can drive one’s life in an uncertain path. Kasey was just fourteen when an unexpected AVM (arteriovenous malformation) on her spinal cord took away the use of her legs. Dealing with a frightful and traumatizing situation is tough for anyone, especially for a fourteen year old. The magic of art therapy helped to distract her from the discomfort and enabled her to express herself after this sudden life changing event. Her talent and creativity are visible throughout her unique and wonderful toy creations and paintings. Let us applaud Kasey for her marvelous creativity and accomplishments.

How did art therapy help you once you became paralyzed? What is the best thing you like about Art?K: It helped me to express the big sudden changes in my life that none of my family and friends really understood. It also was a great distraction from the obstacles I faced. It's easy to get lost in a painting and forget what's going on in the real world. That's the best part about it. Plus it's just really fun to make up ridiculous characters and/or images that didn't exist until I made them.

What is the inspiration behind your custom made toys? How many characters have you invented for the toy series?K: The toys started off as 2D paintings of silly characters that eventually turned into 3D pieces. I take bits of my personality and/or influences from daily life to make fun, amusing pieces that hopefully make people smile or giggle (I giggle to myself all the time.) I've been making toys for about 6 years so I have tons of characters. To give you an idea, I made around 80 pieces last year and 28 so far this year.

Which one of your toy characters you like the most and why? How do you usually come up with their names?K: I have 2 (current) favorites that I may never sell. Rattley Stanley is a traveling snake oil salesman and I used an actual rattlesnake tail. I don't know what it is about him, he just holds a special place in my heart. And Benji is a kangaroo-like creature eating an ice cream cone, who I love for his cotton candy colors and absolute cuteness of him. Their names are whatever amuses me at the time, or try come up with their names by trying to relate them to their character. (For instance, Rattley Stanley. Rattley because he is a Rattlesnake. Stanley because Clark Stanley was a famous snake oil salesman.)

Do you identify with any of your toy characters?K: All of them (more or less..) I see my ridiculous humor and amusement in each one.

Can you tell us more about your 3D paintings? How many paintings do you have in your collection?K:  I used to only make 2D paintings, but after I found my love of toys, I thought it would be really fun to combine the two mediums. I probably have around 40-50 3D paintings, and TONS more of 2D.

Who is your favorite artist? Which of his/her art do you like the most?K: I'm a big collector of art so I don't know if i have a favorite. I have a soft spot for Scribe and Greg Simkins. But I'm also a sucker for the art toys and sculpts. There are a lot (too many to name!) of extremely talented designer toy artists out there, and it's an amazing and friendly community to be a part of.

Where do you see yourself in next 10 years?K: Honestly I have no idea other than I will still be doing art. I have loved it since I was little and have been consistently been creating significant work for over 10 years. I know I always will! Oh! And I'll hopefully be traveling a lot. And have an adorable dog... or two.

What do you like to do when you are with your friends?K: Board games, video games, and eating lots of yummy food.

What is your favorite place to visit? What do you like about that place?K: DISNEYWORLD! Or... California. The weather and scenery couldn't be more beautiful. (Plus they have Disneyland there)

Any special message for our community?K: Art can be a very fulfilling part of life! Try new things, try everything. There are so many completely different art forms out there and so easy to learn with the internet at our fingertips. Take advantage of it and find your passion :)