Meet Kristine Schomaker
For over a decade, artist, curator, and community builder Kristine Schomaker has been building something different at the Brewery Arts Complex in Los Angeles.
Not just another art service. A commons. A circle. A place where artists stop navigating alone and start building real careers on their own terms.
Kristine's Story
I started Shoebox in 2014 not knowing what I was doing. I just knew something was wrong with the way artists were being asked to live. Isolated. Competing. Measuring their worth by who selected them and who didn't. So I made a room.
Based at the Brewery Arts Complex in Los Angeles, I'm a multidisciplinary artist with an MA and BA from CSU Northridge. My own practice is conceptual and autobiographical, spanning painting, photography, performance, and social practice. I've been exploring body image, identity, and what it means to be seen for over twenty years.
But the work I'm most known for is the community I've built around supporting other artists. Not because my own practice doesn't matter. Because I've watched too many talented artists disappear into isolation, burn out chasing the wrong definition of success, or give up entirely because nobody told them there were more paths than the one the art world shows you.
That's what Shoebox is for.
Kristine in her studio 2024. Photo by Baha Danesh
My Philosophy as an Artist Mentor
There is no one right way. That's the thing I say most often and mean most deeply.
What works for the artist next to you might not work for you. What worked ten years ago might not work now. The art world is not one place with one set of rules. It's many worlds, and finding yours, the one that fits your work, your life, and your values, is the real work.
My job is not to tell you what to do. It's to help you figure out what you actually want, where you actually fit, and what you're actually building. Then give you the tools, the community, and the honest feedback to go build it.
I received the 2025 CALI Catalyst Changemaker Grant from the Center for Cultural Innovation. I've been doing this for over a decade. I'm still learning. That's the point.
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
The Journey to Shoebox Arts
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.
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.
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.
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. In 2025 received the CALI Catalyst Changemaker Grant from the Center for Cultural Innovation.
Professional Background
Education & Teaching
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MA Studio Art, CSU Northridge
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BA Art History, CSU Northridge
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Former professor at Antelope Valley College and Pasadena City College
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Extensive art history and contemporary practice knowledge
Publishing & Media
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Founder of Art and Cake contemporary art magazine
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Extensive network in art publication world
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Decade of experience connecting artists with media attention
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Expert in artist promotion and PR strategies
Curatorial Practice
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Curator of numerous Southern California exhibitions
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Director of Shoebox Projects gallery space
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Expert in contemporary and historical art movements
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Established network of galleries, artists, and collectors
Community Leadership
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Former President, Brewery Artwalk Association
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Founder of Facebook groups: Artists Trading Co and Artist Classifieds
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Creator of international collaboration programs
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Mentor to hundreds of emerging and established artists
The Impact After 12 Years
500+ Artists Supported | 20+ Collaboration Rounds | 6 Continents Connected
12 Years of Community
Now in its 12th 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.
Building Community Since 2014
From intimate gallery openings to global collaborations, Shoebox Arts has created countless opportunities for artists to connect, grow, and thrive together.
Ready to Join Our Community?
Experience the support, guidance, and connections that have helped hundreds of artists transform their practices into sustainable careers.
Questions about working together? Email shoeboxartsla@gmail.com to connect with Kristine directly.