Meet A Mom: Artist & Illustrator Kat Ostrem
If you attended our launch party, you may already be familiar with her work. Kat Ostrem is the artist and Babylon Mom behind these beautiful handcrafted journals that were included in our gift bag.
Meet Kat!
Hi! I am a 35 year old mother, wife, artist, and professional living in Babylon. Art has always been my passion and I have been creating and making things since I was a little girl. For the past year, I have been honing my linocut and printmaking skills. I started my small business “KRO Art & Design” which features my hand-printed linocut stamps on cosmetic bags, tote bags, and notebooks. I am also an illustrator and am currently working on illustrating my 4th children’s book. Besides art, I love to read classic literature (I’m an English Lit nerd!) and spend time with friends and family.
How many children do you have and what are their age(s)?
I have a son, Aidan, who will be 5 years old in December, and I’m 5 months pregnant with my second child due in February.
How long have you lived in the Town of Babylon? What made you decide to live here?
I have lived in Babylon for the past 6 years. My husband and I decided to settle in Babylon because we love the sense of community it offers, the unique local restaurants and shops, and the accessibility to the city and beaches.
What’s your favorite family activity around Babylon?
We love to ride our bikes to Southards Pond.
Where’s your favorite place to eat and/or shop in your town?
We like to go to Kotobuki for sushi, Torta Fina for after dinner treats, and the Babylon Bean for coffee and smoothies. I shop at Sherry’s market for my health food fix and Ooh La La Boutique and F&M Goods for unique gifts and finds.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I have a twin sister! She lives in Pennsylvania (where I am originally from), along with the rest of my family.
Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood?
My husband was, and still is, extremely hands on with my son. His involvement really has helped me have more “me time” and has also let me focus on growing my art business. I’m very lucky to have his support in all I do.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
This community has been so willing to promote small businesses and offer support in the kindest ways. Everyone from my hair dresser (shout out to Jordan at Posh Salon!) to women business owners (Heather at Sea Change!) have promoted my business by word of mouth and brainstorming sessions. It truly has been amazing to feel this kind of support.
Learn more about Kathryn Renee Ostrem and her work at kro_artanddesign.