About
Kristen E Carleton Lightwork Arts & Lightwork Art Therapy
Born 1984 ~ youngest of seven, I grew up in Calgary, Alberta and acquired a Bachelor of Fine Art Degree with Distinction from the Alberta University of the Arts in 2009. I became a certified Usui Reiki Master in 2015 and moved to Vancouver Island (2018) to further inspire my artistic and educational endeavors
I currently operate two integrative businesses… one involving fine art sales, energy work and energy painting commissions, as well as ‘Lightwork Art Therapy’ psychotherapy services both virtually and in person (registered as a sole proprietor). Both businesses incorporate and integrate the metaphor of light and energy work (Reiki). I graduated as a Professional Art Therapist from the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy (CiiAT) on November 20th, 2025
As a plein-air enthusiast, I employ acrylic paint with watercolor technique and invent unconventional application styles without the use of an easel. I explore diverse ranges of scale and material, differentiating rhythmic designs that morph within a vacuum of detailed unity
Consistent themes are that of intention and metaphor expressed as organic visuals, encapsulated within a meditative process-based practice of mindfulness. My aesthetics evolve as a visual diary evoking emotion, provoking thought and memory; grounded in healing. Inspired by empowering autonomy, spontaneity, discovery, symbolism, connection, existence, relationships, balance and patterns, I observe what surfaces emotionally, spiritually and physiologically. My practice of using fluid art media as a visually stimulating sensory component to navigating the dichotomies of process and product have elapsed over the past 3 decades
My hope for any audience and client is that they maintain autonomy in what they see and feel; that each artwork can sustain a timeless versatility, and remain fresh yet familiar upon each glance
Victoria, British Columbia is located on the traditional territory of the Songhees and Esquimalt [Xwsepsum] Nations
Photo Credit: aliciahoogveld.com (Alicia Hoogveld Photography)