Kristen Gibson, 33, of rural Portland, is a fifth grade teacher at Bloomfield Elementary School in Jay County. She also works with students as a tutor after school and during the summer.

She began her painting journey as a student at Jay County High School and continued to develop her skills during college at Ball State University.

Kristen experimented with various mediums and styles before falling in love with oils and landscapes while taking lessons from fellow Alcove member Steve McClung at Arts Place in Portland. She enjoys creating a variety of outdoor scenes, with a special focus on lighthouses. She continues taking lessons from McClung and painting in her spare time.

Over the years, she has been inspired by such artists as Thomas Kinkade, Georgia O’Keefe and Bob Ross.

In addition to painting, Kristen has been involved in the arts through Jay County Civic Theatre, including as Princess Fiona in the organization’s 2018 production of “Shrek the Musical.” She enjoys singing, playing piano, candle making, and sewing, among other artistic endeavors.

She is the mother of two children. She serves as a board member for United Way of Jay County.