Artist Bio: Kristy Elaine Runyan Landerkin

I grew up in Baltimore, Maryland and attended local schools: Immaculate Heart of Mary, Loch Raven High School, Essex Community College, Towson University, Goucher College and Johns Hopkins University. In 2001 I graduated from Goucher College with a B.A. in Biology and a minor in Art.   Following graduation, I worked in Microbiology research for a few years. In June of 2004 I was married to Brandon Landerkin at our local church, Arnolia United Methodist Church. I am now pursuing my  art/craft business, SEASHAPED,  full time.  I’ve written and illustrated my first children's book, Painted Wings, and have others in developmental stages.

Although I majored in Biology in college, art was always in and around me, both academically and leisurely.  I owe my artistic talent and creativity to my mother who herself is an amazing artist.  The natural element to my art is the influence of my father, an aquatic science and biology teacher, who made sure that camping, hiking, and fishing were integral parts of my life.  It is my passion to take something natural that God has created and transform it artistically to be enjoyed by others. My interest in sea glass began as a child while combing the shores of Lake Superior during our annual family vacations.  These bright treasures were collected and stored with my special rock collection.  My father also rented a vacation home on the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland for over ten years.  Here, sea glass was abundant and I collected much more of it over that decade.  During high school and college classes, I began experimenting with the possibilities of incorporating the sea glass into my art.  It will forever be an evolving process; I as an artist always have a desire to create.  Currently my husband and I travel the world to find these precious “gems”.

Achievements/Volunteer Activities

• 1998-Published Photographer for St. Mary’s Seminary Annual Catalogue, Baltimore, MD
• Winter 1998-1999- Published Photographer for The Montage, Essex Community College, Baltimore, MD
• March 2002-Built house with Habitat for Humanity, North Carolina
• Summer 2001-Current: Create stage/entrance/props etc. for children’s Vacation Bible School, Arnolia United Methodist Church, Baltimore, MD
• Spring 2004-Renovated Community sign and garden area, Baltimore, MD
• Fall 2005-Created wall mural for Tea and Treasures event, Arnolia United Methodist Church, Baltimore, MD
• June 2006-Wrote, Illustrated and Published 1st children’s book, Painted Wings