About Kimberly

ARTIST BIOGRAPHY

Kimberly Willcox emerged from the womb an artist, and her gift was recognized early on by her parents and teachers. As a teenager she was invited to attend art classes at the Ateneum Art Museum in Helsinki, Finland, and by age 15, she had already received an apprenticeship with renowned sculptor, Eila Hiltunen. At age 16, Kimberly left her home in Helsinki for a seven-year stint as an international fashion model. In this career, she was represented by Kerttu Seleen (Finland), Karen’s Models (France), Top Models (Germany), Elite (USA) and Satoru (Japan).

In 1986 fate stepped in. Kimberly met and fell in love with partner Kevin Nordhausen. Kevin was instantly intrigued with Kimberly’s perception of the world as a canvas upon which art, in a variety of mediums, was to be explored and embraced. Over time, he learned to be an invaluable asset to her artist’s vision by researching and developing complimentary working materials and techniques that enhance Kimberly's creative process and works. Together they founded Free Expressions by Kimberly Willcox, 1987-2002. In 1994 the couple settled in Gainesville FL, where they converted an old feed mill into a home and art studio.

During her early career, Kimberly also served as frequent juror and participated in numerous prestigious art fair venues across the country. In 1990, Kimberly illustrated a book “Oyster Sauce” published by Holy Moses. In2003, Kimberly licensed a substantial giftable line with over 200 product designs with Syratech, “Tickle Your Soul” by Kimberly Willcox TM for Silverstri® (leader in the tabletop- and giftware-products industry). Her collections included jewelry, jewelry stands, table top, stationary, accessories and holiday items. In 2005, Kimberly had the opportunity to expand her product designs to include textiles and art glass with “The Indian Ministry for the Promotion of Handicrafts.”

Along with her early fine arts career, Free Expressions by Kimberly Willcox launched Kimberly’s designs into galleries and museums throughout the United States, Europe and Asia. During this period, her functional art, jewelry and giftable designs were collected, commissioned and sold in the following galleries and museums.