From teenage tennis prodigy to coastal engineer, Kate Steenhauer’s diverse career path has taken a new turn, working as a fi ne artist producing award- winning pieces based on Scotland’s industrial landscape.
‘I was always passionate about art, but I didn’t really have the time to develop it. As a teenager growing up in the Netherlands, I spent a lot of my time competing in tennis matches, reaching the top ten in the under 18s rankings. At university, I opted to study engineering, culminating in a PhD in Coastal Engineering from the University of Aberdeen,’ explained Kate.
‘Since then the majority of my time has been spent on art undergoing apprenticeships with George Collier and Nicole Porter, both of whom have helped me develop my skills to the point where I’ve won a Royal Scottish Academy Award, amongst others. I’m particularly fortunate in having the support of Energy Consultancy Tymor Marine, who have provided a studio space for me to work from.
‘I draw from direct observation. I then use oil paint and intaglio printmaking techniques to create final pieces all with emphasis on line, texture and scale. My latest work reflects the industrial life of the shipyards along the waterfront of Aberdeen. Contemporary etchings of industrial scenes transport the viewer into a world of arresting detail and mechanised splendour. For me, the atmospheric dramas of the docks deliver an intimate narrative of the relationship between man and machine.
‘Currently I am working at the Heliport to capture every aspect of the helicopter industry, from flying, maintenance, repair and overhaul to the passengers travelling to and from the ships and platforms that make up their off shore workplaces.
‘I exhibit regularly in Edinburgh at the Royal Scottish Academy and in galleries in London and Aberdeen. People can make a studio appointment to view my work or discuss commissions via email, katesteenhauer@hotmail.com or www.katesteenhauer.com
