In this captivating episode of the I Am Lakeland podcast, host Don Burns sits down with Kate Hall, the creative force behind Art by Kate Hall. A long-time Lakeland resident, Kate shares her journey from a childhood passion for painting—inspired by the legendary Bob Ross—to becoming one of the city’s most prominent muralists. As the first recipient of the Dixieland Art Infusion grant, Kate discusses the realization of her “floral triptych” on the Low Country Vintage building and how crowdfunding and community support helped bring her vision to life.
The conversation delves into Kate’s diverse body of work, which can be seen across Lakeland, from the iconic swan mural at Traditions Unlimited to her professional interpretation of student artwork for the historical timeline at Lake Parker. Kate explains the meticulous process behind her murals, including conceptualizing designs that balance artistic expression with local regulations and the logistical challenges of painting large-scale pieces—often while navigating the Florida heat and rain.
Beyond the paint and scaffolding, Kate touches on her professional life in the insurance industry with AmeriLife, where she provides concierge-style services for retirees. She also highlights her deep commitment to family and the importance of encouraging creativity in the next generation, sharing stories of collaborating with her daughter on artistic projects. The episode wraps up with a look at Kate’s upcoming projects, including a “patriotic steampunk” mural in Winter Haven and a vibrant new design for a hair salon in Dixieland. 19
