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Meet Kristine Schomaker

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For over a decade, multidisciplinary artist and curator Kristine Schomaker has been the driving force behind Los Angeles' most supportive artist community, helping hundreds of artists transform their practices into sustainable careers.

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Kristine's Story

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For years, Kristine has been known to friends and fellow artists as "The Great Connector"—the person who can help you find whatever you need. This reputation stems from more than just her generous spirit; it reflects a deep understanding of what artists truly need to thrive in an often challenging creative landscape.

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Based at the Brewery artist complex in Los Angeles, Kristine earned her BA in Art History and MA in Studio Art from California State University at Northridge. Her artistic practice centers on conceptual autobiography, exploring body image, gender identity, and society's relationship with beauty through painting, photography, performance, digital media, and social practice.

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But Kristine's impact extends far beyond her own studio practice. During her tenure as President and Social Media Manager of the Brewery Artwalk Association, she realized a crucial truth: most artists would rather focus on working in the studio than handling the business side of art. Many talented creators needed someone who understood both the creative process and the practical realities of building an art career.

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Kristine in her studio 2024. Photo by Baha Danesh

My Philosophy as an Artist Mentor

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At the heart of my approach to artist mentorship is the belief that every interaction, every piece of advice, and every challenge overcome is part of a larger journey of growth. "I am planting seeds," as I often tell the artists I work with—meaning that everything you learn, hear, and experience will help you grow into the artist you want to become. It just takes patience and perseverance. This philosophy recognizes that artistic careers don't happen overnight; they're cultivated through consistent effort, strategic choices, and the willingness to keep moving forward even when the path isn't clear.

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I believe deeply in the power of momentum—that "everything is a ripple or snowball effect." When you start showing up, putting yourself out there, and taking action, you create energy that builds upon itself. You never know where that first gallery visit, that initial Instagram post, or that brave submission to a group show will lead, but you have to start somewhere. Everything you do becomes a stepping stone to the next opportunity, which is why I encourage artists to "just do it" and keep going, even when progress feels slow.

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My role is to help make this journey smoother by providing the tools and resources that streamline the business side of art—from social media strategies to organizational systems—so artists can spend more time doing what matters most: creating in the studio. Because ultimately, that's where the magic happens, and everything else should support that creative process.

Liberty Worth solo exhibition at Shoebox Pictured: Monica Marks, Kristine Schomaker, Liberty Worth and Shana Nys Dambrot

What Artists Say About This Approach


"I was referred to Kristine when I told a patron I needed guidance and mentorship in my artistic journey. I appreciated her insight in a consultation where we discussed goals and direction for my future in art. Kristine is full of so many useful insights, resources, and recommendations. She emphasizes the endless information she offers through her workshops, planting valuable seeds for future endeavors. Kristine is so wise, down to earth, and inspiring that I couldn't recommend more the community and resources she offers through Shoebox Arts." — Emily Wallerstein

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The Journey to Shoebox Arts

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Late 1990s - Artist & Educator Beginnings
Kristine begins exhibiting her conceptual autobiography work in prestigious venues including Cal State LA, UCLA, the Torrance Art Museum, and 18th Street Art Center. Simultaneously teaches art history at multiple California Community Colleges, developing deep understanding of both creative practice and educational support.

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2014 - Shoebox Arts is Born
Recognizing the gap between artistic talent and business acumen, Kristine founds Shoebox Arts. This wasn't just another art service—it was a mission born from genuine care for her community, designed to help artists with marketing and the practical realities of art careers.

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2015 - Art and Cake Magazine Launch
Kristine launches Art and Cake magazine, championing underrepresented artists and creating vital community connections throughout Southern California. The publication becomes a cornerstone of LA's contemporary art documentation.

 

2016 - Shoebox Projects Opens
Establishes Shoebox Projects, an alternative art space at the Brewery Arts Complex, providing emerging artists with professional exhibition opportunities they might not otherwise access.

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2020-Present - Global Community
Building During the pandemic, creates innovative programs like "Call and Response" connecting 500+ artists across 6 continents. Develops comprehensive membership community and expands international reach while maintaining deep local LA roots.

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Professional Background

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Education & Teaching

  • MA Studio Art, CSU Northridge

  • BA Art History, CSU Northridge

  • Former professor at Antelope Valley College and Pasadena City College

  • Extensive art history and contemporary practice knowledge

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Publishing & Media

  • Founder of Art and Cake contemporary art magazine

  • Extensive network in art publication world

  • Decade of experience connecting artists with media attention

  • Expert in artist promotion and PR strategies

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Curatorial Practice

  • Curator of numerous Southern California exhibitions

  • Director of Shoebox Projects gallery space

  • Expert in contemporary and historical art movements

  • Established network of galleries, artists, and collectors

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Community Leadership

  • Former President, Brewery Artwalk Association

  • Founder of Facebook groups: Artists Trading Co and Artist Classifieds

  • Creator of international collaboration programs

  • Mentor to hundreds of emerging and established artists

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The Impact After 11 Years

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500+ Artists Supported | 20+ Collaboration Rounds | 6 Continents Connected | 11 Years of Community

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Now in its 11th year, Shoebox Arts continues to expand, helping Kristine bolster a vibrant, diverse community of artists. Her work represents more than business development—it's about recognizing that artistic success requires both creative vision and practical support, and that the strongest art communities are built when established artists lift up those still finding their way.

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Building Community Since 2014

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From intimate gallery openings to global collaborations, Shoebox Arts has created countless opportunities for artists to connect, grow, and thrive together.

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Ready to Join Our Community?

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Experience the support, guidance, and connections that have helped hundreds of artists transform their practices into sustainable careers.

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Questions about working together? Email shoeboxartsla@gmail.com to connect with Kristine directly.

© 2025 by Shoebox Arts. All rights reserved.

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