FOR Redlands City local Kate Stimson, creativity and compassion go hand in hand.
A practising visual artist, art therapist and Reiki practitioner, Kate has spent the past 18 years building a life and business grounded in healing, self-expression and community.
Her business, Calming Natural Therapies, offers an eclectic mix of services – from art therapy, to sip and paint sessions, art classes and Reiki healing.
At the heart of her practice is a desire to connect with others and help them find clarity through creative and holistic exploration while on their own healing journeys.
“From an early age, I’ve always had this inner need to express myself creatively whether it’s dress making, quilting, knitting, crocheting or painting – and alongside that, to help others,” Kate said.
Whether she’s leading a painting class or offering support through art therapy or Reiki, her approach is hands-on and empathetic.
Originally from the UK, Kate first studied hotel and catering management before travelling overseas with her husband. In time, her creative pastimes improved, making her a lifelong learner of the arts and fulfilling her dream of becoming a teacher.
Her career has since evolved to encompass many meaningful roles, including working with residents at Hummingbird House, Queensland’s only children’s hospice, and with the Art and Dementia program at Queensland Art Gallery.
Following her husband’s cancer diagnosis and treatment at the Mater Hospital, Kate began offering art therapy there too.
“Art therapy empowers people to look at their own work and let the art speak,” she said. “My role is to support that journey – asking the right questions, guiding gently.”
Kate also offers Reiki, a practice she describes as “something you almost have to experience to understand”.
“It’s like a deep meditation. Reiki helps release internal energy blockages and promotes mental, physical, emotional and spiritual balance.”
Based in the Redlands, Kate offers home visits, runs sessions from her own studio, and travels to schools and hospitals.
This August, she will exhibit her artwork alongside other artists at The Old SchoolHouse Gallery – a community event set to showcase a vibrant, multi-media celebration of creativity.
