Artist Profile: Kayla Traxel

Kayla Traxel

706 Broadway Blvd
Kansas City, MO 64105

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Bio:

Kayla Traxel is a portrait artist whose work uses watercolor, mixed media, and found materials to explore themes of human connection, individuality, and the shared experiences that unite us. Her artistic journey began with a deep appreciation for watercolor’s fluidity and collaborative nature, a reflection of her broader philosophy: embracing the unknown, valuing partnerships, and allowing each piece to evolve organically. Kayla’s work is deeply informed by her belief in the strength of community. Inspired by her sister, who taught her the essence of a soul and the importance of interconnectedness, Kayla sees art as a means to foster empathy and build supportive systems. This philosophy also guides her career in healthcare, where she works to bridge the social care and healthcare sectors to improve care coordination for vulnerable populations. Kayla believes that a cohesive community echos the principle of “as above, so below”, rooted in the understanding that, at our core, we are more alike than different. Creativity, for Kayla, is an indomitable spark of life that should never be suppressed, and wants to use her artistic practice to spread her community ideals. Her art reflects her belief that we are part of a collective whole, shaped by the help and opportunities we receive. She experiments with a range of materials that serendipitously appear, weaving eclectic techniques into pieces that explore the complexity of human connection. As a commissioned artist, she thrives on the personal connections formed through her art, crafting pieces that are visually compelling and deeply representative of her clients’ stories. This personalized approach stems from her genuine passion for people—relating, understanding, and reflecting their essence in her work. Thematically, her works often explore the interplay between internal and external perceptions, drawing on her journey of self-discovery and the evolving dialogue between tradition and innovation. This personal exploration is evident in notable works, specifically her 2014 e-waste portrait, Parts, which marked significant milestones in her artistic identity. Kayla’s passion for art extends beyond the canvas. As a docent at the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, she shares her love of creativity and strives to make art accessible to all. Early experiences painting alongside seasoned artists at the Foothills Art Museum instilled a profound respect for generational wisdom, shaping her belief in the importance of passing on knowledge and fostering dialogue through art. Awarded Best in Show and recognized in multiple competitions, Kayla views these honors not as endpoints but as motivations to keep evolving. Based in Kansas City, MO, at the Zhou B Art Center, she continues to blend her artistic practice with her dedication to community care.