Artist Statement
As an artist and designer, I am driven by my love for textiles, fashion, and interior design. I believe that these disciplines have the power to transform spaces, evoke emotions, and foster connections. Through my work, I seek to push the boundaries of traditional textile design, experimenting with innovative materials, techniques, and applications. My goal is to create bespoke textiles that not only adorn spaces but also tell stories, evoke emotions, and bring people together. Whether through interior design, fashion, or art, I strive to craft immersive experiences that inspire, uplift, and connect us.
Bio
Kia’s fascination with interior design began at a young age, leading her to pursue a BFA in Interior Design and Architecture at Queens University of Charlotte in North Carolina. With a diverse background spanning knitwear design to residential interior design, Kia brings a unique perspective to her work. She loves designing knitwear, combining texture, color, and pattern to create cozy, functional pieces that bring warmth and comfort to everyday life. As a skilled project manager, she excels at finding innovative solutions to design challenges. Outside of her professional pursuits, Kia unwinds by painting with her daughter or tending to her garden, allowing her to recharge and spark new creativity.
Portfolio Links:
Current Solo Exhibit : https://www.instagram.com/p/DAti9Y-x285/
https://www.wearethearts.com/interwoven?utm_campaign=34305e37-3eb1-479d-9118-05925 c3ab484&utm_source=so&utm_medium=mail&cid=24fd0ea0-c9b4-4c50-a2b6-23d241254a5d
Website: https://www.kialove.com/
IG : https://www.instagram.com/kialove_studios/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/knittingjones/
Current Solo Exhibit : https://www.instagram.com/p/DAti9Y-x285/
Education
AA Graphic Design + Advertising, FayettevilleTechnical Community College,2003 BFA Interior Architecture + Design,Queens University of Charlotte,2015
Exhibits + Shows
Eco Fab Fashion Show,2015
Vintage Charlotte,NC ,2016
Yarn Bomb,Charlotte Rail Trail,2017
Alabama Fashion Week, Headlining Designer
Recycled Arts Fashion Show, Lowe Mill Arts + Entertainment
Yarn Bomb Exhibit,Lego Exhibit, Huntsville Botanical Gardens,2018
10:10 Art Exhibit, Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County,2019
10BY Art Exhibit, Cape Fear Studios, 2019
“InnerWoven”, Public Arts Exhibit, Feb 2021
Cabin Fever Exhibit,Cape Fear Studios, Jan 2022
Solo Exhibit, Encore Academy, March 2024
Solo Exhibit, Arts Council of Fayetteville, NC , Interwoven Sept 2024- Oct 2024
Awards+ Grants
Artist Mini Grant, Textiles + Sustainability Workshops,2024
Cools Springs District, “Innerwoven” Public Arts Exhibit, Linear Park,2021 Knitwear Designer of the Year,Alabama Fashion Week,2017
City of Fayetteville Community Microgrant,2022, Kia Love Project
https://www.kialove.com/the-kia-love-project
Artist Support Grant, Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County for our 2022-2023 year
Press
Women’s View Magazine, March 2021,pg 22
https://pubhtml5.com/twqv/mlew/Women%26%2339%3Bs_View_Magazine_March_2021/
Fayetteville Observer, Feb 2021
https://www.fayobserver.com/story/news/2021/02/06/temporary-art-installation-fayetteville-hon ors-black-history-month/4373251001/
Fayetteville Observer, Feb 2021
https://www.facebook.com/fayobserver/posts/5154108327997098
Color of Fayetteville, November 2021
Slow Fashion, Complex Art: Fiber Artist Kia Love
https://coloroffayetteville.com/2020/11/06/slow-fashion-complex-art-fiber-artist-kia-love/
WIDU Interview
https://www.facebook.com/widu1600AM/videos/779619279426433
Downtown Fayetteville Feature
https://www.instagram.com/p/C5EASomLVia/?img_index=1
Teaching Approach:
- Hands-on Learning: I emphasize hands-on learning experiences that allow students to engage directly with materials and techniques.
- Demonstrations and Guided Practice: I provide clear demonstrations and guided practice to help students develop technical skills.
- Open-Ended Projects: I encourage students to work on open-ended projects that allow them to explore their own creative interests and passions.
- Feedback and Reflection: I provide regular feedback and encourage students to reflect on their own learning process.
Assessment:
- Process-Based: I assess student learning based on their process, including their ability to experiment, take risks, and problem-solve.
- Technical Skill: I evaluate student technical skill, including their ability to execute specific techniques and manipulate materials.
- Creative Expression: I assess student creative expression, including their ability to convey meaning and emotion through their work.
By fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, I aim to empower students to develop their technical skills, creative voice, and critical thinking abilities, preparing them for a lifelong journey of learning and creative exploration in the textile arts.
Teaching Experience
Textiles + Susustainabilty ( May 2025)
Interior Design Instructor( Teens+ Adults), Cary Arts Center, Cary NC - September 2024 to present
Interior Design Basics, Tablescaping, Interior Design Styles, Loving your Space, Lighting Design + Space Planning
Interior Design 101: Designing on a Budget, Habitat for Humanity,2019
Knitting 101, Massey Hill Recreation Center,2019
Natural Dyeing: Dyeing Textiles with Natural Materials, Cape Fear Studios, 2020 Sewing 101, Kia Love Studios,2021
Rug Hooking, 2022, Kia Love Studios
Interior Design Basics, Encore Academy April,2024