Enjoy the quirky and creative portfolio of digital artist Kay Evison, who finds inspiration in Steampunk fantasy. Find more of her work here.
“The Cheek of It” digital painting, 16″ x 20″
Originally from the UK, I now call New Zealand home. I work as a digital painter with a deep love for whimsical, anthropomorphic Steampunk art. My creations are playful and imaginative, inviting viewers into fantastical worlds where animals wear corsets, goggles, and time-traveling contraptions. Each piece is a celebration of character, humour, and storytelling.
“Draco” digital painting, 16″ x 20″
Creativity pulses through every part of my life. I have performed with a close-knit group of girlfriends, blending comedy and dance. I’ve recently taken up the ukulele, because why not add a little melody to the madness?
“Steampunk Jerry” digital painting, 16″ x 20″
I’m also an active member of a Steampunk collective. Thee we design and wear elaborate costumes inspired by Victorian elegance fused with futuristic fantasy. We scour Opportunity Shops for hidden treasures—cogs, corsets, goggles, and steam-powered dreams. We gather at tea parties, parades, and music events to revel in self-expression and imaginative play.
“Master of the Hounds” digital painting, 16″ x 20″
Animals have always held a special place in my heart. Much of my creative process begins in daydreams, where wildlife and storytelling intertwine. Over the years, I’ve explored a wide range of artistic mediums, genre and style and have sold my work both locally and internationally. For a time, I even transformed part of my home into a gallery space, hosting monthly exhibitions to support emerging artists. It was a joyful way to foster community and creativity.
“Let the Games Begin” digital painting, 16″ x 20″
My artistic process is fluid and intuitive. Rarely does a painting end as it began. Ideas evolve organically as I work, and that sense of discovery is what makes digital painting so exhilarating. I start with my own photography, often capturing Steampunk costumes at events. Then I pair them with animal characters from my personal wildlife photo library. Through digital compositing and painting, I breathe life into these characters, sometimes animating them to add movement and joy. My goal is always to spark laughter, wonder, and connection.
“Lockdown” digital painting, 20″ x 16″
My journey into digital art began over 30 years ago when my daughter started school. With newfound time, I began crafting humorous, personalized greeting cards using early software like Paint Shop Pro. I was swapping heads, altering backgrounds, and creating quirky compositions that quickly became favourites among friends.
“Big Day Out” digital painting, 16″ x 20″
After relocating to New Zealand in my early 40s, I pursued formal training in Computer Graphic Design at Auckland University of Technology. I earned Level 4 qualifications with Distinction and Merit awards. Though digital painting differs from traditional canvas work, the essence remains the same. It requires years of practice, mastery of brushwork, and a blend of creativity and technical skill. Using Photoshop, a digital tablet, and stylus, I build each piece layer by layer—adjusting colour, lighting, refining composition, blending and adding intricate brushstrokes.
“Mr Snooty” digital painting, 16″ x 20″
My passion deepened when I discovered the Photo Artistry course, which led me to the advanced Awake and Kaizen programs. These experiences challenged me to explore new techniques, push creative boundaries, and refine my artistic voice.
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