Artist Bio
Julia “Kito” Kirtley is a multidisciplinary artist from Compton, California, now based in Brooklyn, NY. She holds a BA in Interior Design from Pratt Institute.
Kito’s signature “cityscapes” are abstract mixed-media works—often on repurposed canvases—layered with mirrors, fabric, and tile. Her practice explores the kinetic relationship between sound, movement, and painting, drawing deeply from NYC’s underground house-dance community.
Through performance-driven Happenings, she merges live painting, music, and dance, transforming each event into an immersive, collaborative experience. (See the Exhibitions page for examples.)
Kito’s signature “cityscapes” are abstract mixed-media works—often on repurposed canvases—layered with mirrors, fabric, and tile. Her practice explores the kinetic relationship between sound, movement, and painting, drawing deeply from NYC’s underground house-dance community.
Through performance-driven Happenings, she merges live painting, music, and dance, transforming each event into an immersive, collaborative experience. (See the Exhibitions page for examples.)
Wellness Work
Beyond the studio, Kito is an arts wellness advocate and founder of Red Lotus Arts, a MWBE-certified initiative serving hospitals, schools, and community centers across New York City. Her workshops integrate painting, mindfulness, and community mural-making to foster resilience and joy in underserved communities.
Kito’s commitment to healing through art is rooted in her own wellness journey as a breast cancer survivor. She now shares that process widely—partnering with hospitals, senior centers, and grassroots organizations to bring creative tools for recovery, empowerment, and connection.
Kito’s commitment to healing through art is rooted in her own wellness journey as a breast cancer survivor. She now shares that process widely—partnering with hospitals, senior centers, and grassroots organizations to bring creative tools for recovery, empowerment, and connection.