For Kathy (née Juveli) Hauck, creativity has always been part of life — but painting arrived as a surprising new chapter. After retiring in June 2025 from her role as an elementary school secretary with Minneapolis Public Schools, Kathy finally had the time to explore something she had never seriously tried before: painting. Although she had long enjoyed artistic pursuits like singing, playing guitar, bookbinding, and glass bead making, drawing and painting were new territory. During a spring break in 2024, she enrolled in an online acrylic abstract painting class — and within ten minutes, she was hooked.
Working primarily with acrylic on canvas, Kathy often layers in oil pastels, ink, and pencil, letting color and curiosity guide the process. Sometimes she begins with a loose idea — a flower, guitar, house, or even a robot — while other times she lets vibrant swashes, splashes, and dots of color take the lead. She signs her work “juveli,” a playful nod to her maiden name and the nickname many longtime friends still use for her. The piece she created for the 2026 Art 4 Shelter fundraiser, titled “It’s My House and I Live Here,” draws its name from a beloved Diana Ross song and reflects the joyful, expressive energy that runs through much of her work.
Like many artists, Kathy’s confidence grew gradually. At first she wasn’t convinced she could truly call herself an artist — even after selling several paintings. But encouragement from people around her and the act of continuing to create helped something click. Now, she embraces the endless possibilities that art offers, constantly experimenting with new techniques, color palettes, and ideas. “There are so many styles and techniques out there,” she says. “I can’t wait to learn and experiment some more.”
Being selected as the 2026 Art 4 Shelter featured artist came as a surprise to Kathy. After first submitting work in 2025 at the encouragement of Juli Hanssen, she never imagined she would one day hold this honor. Supporting Simpson Housing Services through her art feels deeply meaningful, especially after touring the new Simpson Community Shelter & Apartments and seeing the thoughtful work being done there. As she looks ahead, Kathy describes painting as more than a hobby — it’s a new beginning. “I’m reimagining what my retirement looks like,” she says. “It’s like starting my life over. Here I go.”