Katy’s Story

     Some artists are born with a paintbrush in their hand, and others find their way to art through a lifetime of exploration. For Katherine Crim (Katy) creativity has always been a constant companion. From sketching as a child to becoming a celebrated art educator and signature member of the West Virginia Watercolor Society, Katy’s artistic journey is woven with dedication, curiosity, and an ever-growing love for the world around her.

     Raised during America’s craft movement, Katy learned the value of craftsmanship, discipline, and the joy of creation. As an art teacher in Harrison County, West Virginia since the 1990s, she has spent decades inspiring young artists while continuing to evolve her own work. Whether she’s experimenting with different media, embracing the fluidity of watercolor, or layering textures with collage and impasto, she remains a student of her craft, forever chasing new forms of expression.

     Nature has long been her muse. Katy’s work captures the quiet poetry of West Virginia’s landscapes—the dappled light through the trees, the flowing curves of rivers, the shifting patterns of seasons. Recently, she has turned her attention to a unique canvas: vintage maps of West Virginia. These pieces, blending history and artistry, evoke a sense of place and memory, inviting viewers to see familiar landscapes through a new lens.

     Art by Crim, the gallery she and her husband Jim founded over three decades ago, stands as a testament to their shared creative vision. Together, they have cultivated a space that is more than a gallery—it is a reflection of their deep love for art, photography, and the natural beauty of their home state. From custom framing to large-scale murals adorning local landmarks, their work is infused with passion and precision. Their son Mick, a talented photographer, graphic designer, and laser artist, has since joined the family business, ensuring that Art by Crim continues to flourish for years to come.

     Katy’s contributions to the art world extend beyond her own canvas. In 2022, she was named West Virginia Art Educator of the Year, an honor that speaks to her impact on students and fellow artists alike. Whether in the classroom or the studio, she believes in the power of lifelong learning, seeing every challenge as an opportunity to grow. Her work has graced exhibitions, public spaces, and private collections, each piece a celebration of color, light, and the joy of making.