“Great ideas start small and fragile — with your nurture, they can grow into great things — so don’t let someone mean stamp on them!”

A Toronto Native with a Passion for Art

Where did you grow up?

I grew up around Avenue Road & Lawrence (North Toronto), which was very middle-class. I spent my early years either drawing, making models, embroidering, and photographing or playing various pick-up sports with friends.

When and why did you move to Toronto?

I was born and raised in Toronto. My wife and I moved to suburbia to afford a house, but my heart remains in Toronto. Walking its tree-lined streets, cycling, or taking the TTC to everything—it’s so full of life.

What is your favorite neighbourhood in Toronto?

I love many of Toronto’s neighbourhoods: the grand houses and diverse restaurants of the Annex, the Junction’s galleries and gritty charm, the Danforth for its wonderful Greek food and late-night markets, and of course, the Beach, with its resort-town feel and sunset walks along the boardwalk.

An Artistic Journey: From Design to Collage

What inspired you to pursue art as a career?

My parents recognized my artistic side and, knowing designers and artists themselves, encouraged me toward design for financial stability. My first real art job was in high school at a small animation studio downtown—a dream opportunity I didn’t fully appreciate at the time.

What is your favorite type of art to create?

I practice what I call “serial monogamy” in art. I become obsessed with one medium—whether it’s corrugated cardboard, stencils, airbrushing, or typography—until something new steals my heart. Lately, my passion has been fashion-oriented collage and décollage. I love working in ways that allow for surprises while still retaining some internal logic.

What makes your work unique?

I create small-scale collages by hand and then enlarge them digitally for bold, large-scale prints. This blend of fine detail and dramatic impact makes my work stand out.

Creative Blocks, Inspiration, and the Drive to Keep Making

Is there anything that prevents your creative juices from flowing?

There are always obstacles, but I prioritize creativity—even if it means ignoring household chores! Creativity is cyclical; rest, exercise, time in nature, and travel help recharge the mind.

What inspires you most to create art?

Deadlines! Years in graphic design have conditioned me to thrive under pressure. Even if the deadline is self-imposed, I need external consequences to push me forward.

What advice would you give to someone pursuing an art career?

For applied art: Do the very best you can — even if the money isn’t good at first — and it won’t be. Having good work in your portfolio and doing right by those early clients who put their trust in you will build a solid foundation for your career. Communicate clearly and completely — and ask all the questions you need to. Yes, writing detailed emails takes time. But not nearly as much time as re-doing work because something was unclear or erroneous assumptions were made — trust me. (Plus: in the case of disputes — a paper trail is your best friend.) Be true to your ethical standards — you can earn a good living without working for people or companies you don’t approve of. Chisel out a small chunk of time every week for your own creativity. A class, a Sunday morning, an hour before breakfast — it will keep your personal creativity alive. Clients can’t be your sole creative outlet — pun intended!

For an artist: Do. Do. Do. And then, do more. That’s how you get better. As best you can, get absorbed in the doing and leave the judging until later. Fear of making mistakes and second-guessing your work the moment you start it will halt you in your tracks. Don’t show nascent work to anyone who you even suspect might respond negatively. Great ideas start small and fragile — with your nurture, they can grow into great things — so don’t let someone mean stamp on them!

Ignore the critics — they won’t get what you’re doing-especially if you’re doing something new. They want a convenient pigeonhole to shove you into – don’t let them. Instead, surround yourself with positive, encouraging people — especially those who are also striving to bring something new and interesting into the world — and support each other.

Bringing Art to Union Hotel

How did you select the art pieces for Union Hotel?

Union Hotel’s history and fashion-forward ethos inspired me. I designed pieces specifically for the hotel, incorporating vintage photos of Toronto, the Strathcona (Union’s predecessor), and the city’s early 20th-century garment trade. Elements like old maps tie Toronto’s past to its contemporary architecture, creating a sense of place.

What is your favorite thing about hotels?

The art! But beyond that, I love the freedom hotels offer—escaping daily responsibilities, enjoying a new environment, and immersing myself in a city without worrying about logistics.

The Road to Success and Self-Discovery

What has been your biggest career win?

My biggest win came in early 2022 when I realized I was trans. By the time I was ready to announce it in 2024, I was happier than ever. That authenticity helped propel my career, leading to my most successful show ever and opportunities like Union Hotel. My biggest lesson? Your best work comes from your best self, and with love and support, you can achieve incredible things.

Are there any art-world “truths” you disagree with?

The myth that talent is inherent and cannot be taught is false. Creativity is a skill like any other and can be learned and improved with effort. The arts should be valued and funded in education and society, as creativity is present in so many industries, from film to fashion.

Kat Honey’s work at Union Hotel seamlessly blends Toronto’s past with a bold, contemporary vision. Her eye for composition, love of contrasts, and sharp wit make her art both thought-provoking and deeply tied to the city’s history.

To explore more of Kat’s work, visit her website or follow her on social media: Instagram, and Facebook.