Kimberly Bost

Kimberly Bost is an artist, activist, and mother whose work bridges creativity, advocacy, and public service. Based in Hickory, North Carolina, she holds degrees in Apparel Design from the University of Delaware and the Fashion Institute of Technology, which led to an accomplished career in design and product development for nationally recognized brands. Building on that foundation, Kimberly’s creative practice now centers on painting—drawing inspiration from color, nature, and light. The workshops she leads invite participants into transformation through color, reflection, and creative play, empowering individuals to discover courage and clarity through art. In addition to her artistic practice, Kimberly has been a three-time candidate for the North Carolina General Assembly, running on platforms that center equality, representation, and community wellbeing. A dedicated advocate and community builder, she currently serves as Executive Director of OUTright Youth of Catawba Valley, a nonprofit supporting and empowering LGBTQ+ youth in rural North Carolina. Her political advocacy and nonprofit leadership draw deeply on her creative vision, reflecting her belief that art is a powerful tool for both personal transformation and societal change.

• 2018, Group exhibition, Lake James Sunset, Root and Vine, Morganton, NC (with Joe Lafone and Stephen Brooks) • 2020, Juried show, Trade Alley Art • Cheap Joe's Art Contest, Blue Ribbon, Amateur Category • June 2021, Big Skies, two person show with Stephen Brooks, Carolina Vines • October 2021, I, Me, Mine: Self Portraits by Area Artists, Arts Culture Catawba • September 2022, The Art of Printmaking, group show, 3 pieces, Fanjoy Labrenz Studio and Melissa Gibson Frame Gallery • December 2022, Paintings of Land and Sea, two person show with Stephen Brooks, Fanjoy Labrenz Gallery • April to June 2024, Solo exhibition, Meadowbrook Inn, Blowing Rock, NC • September 2024, Solo show, 3 Little Birds, Newton, NC • October to December 2025, Solo exhibition, Arts Culture Catawba • May 2026, Juried show, Atac Gallery, Hickory, NC • September 2026, Upcoming group show featuring Kimberly's work, Old Rock Schoolhouse, Valdese, NC