About Katie

Katie Smith, working under the alias KatieBute, is an artist and textile designer based in Zurich, Switzerland.

Katie´s formal education began at school on the Isle of Bute, where she began to take interest in painting and illustration. And, though an easily distracted student herself, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Textile Design with Honours from Heriot-Watt University, formerly the Scottish College of Textiles, where she gained experience in woven and knitted textiles before specialising in printed textiles.

She is inspired by a variety of sources, chiefly the skill of drawing and painting in a detailed and exhaustive manner. Discovering all possibilities is an important aspect of her method; working closely with subject matter ensuring all qualities are captured and then translated onto paper or fabric.

In 2016, Katie made the move to Madrid, Spain and quickly gained a footprint in the city´s galleries and exhibitions as well as in wider Spain.

2019 saw Katie make the move to Zurich, Switzerland where she continued to paint and present her work in an exciting art market.

In early 2022 Katie was approached by California based trading card company Upper Deck to contribute to their ongoing Artist Sketch Card series with Marvel | Marvel Studios. Upper Deck are the industry leader in trading cards working on behalf of Marvel, Hello Kitty, Thomas & Friends…to name a few.

In 2024, Katie proudly joined Derwent®, a renowned global provider of art supplies, as one of their esteemed global art ambassadors. Derwent® deeply values the involvement and collaboration of artists, showcasing the works of international creators across its extensive range of products. Katie considers it a privilege to represent Derwent® and contribute to a brand that so profoundly supports and celebrates the global art community.

KatieBute has art exhibited in galleries throughout the West Coast of Scotland, Italy, Spain and Switzerland.

Katie can be contacted for commissions or inquiries via her contact page.