Catherine Darling Hostetter

Simple joys such as the cool breeze of an early summer morning, or a garden laden with the blush of roses illuminate Catherine's love of life and art. Born in the valley of the Great Salt Lake, Catherine draws inspiration from the mountains, beautiful lakes and especially the community of service oriented people found there.

As a child Catherine was described by her mother as easy to please and always happy. Catherine delights in bringing the peace and  happiness that she adores into her paintings and hopes to inspire others with her art in her whimsical style. She currently works in acrylic and oils. Her art career began as a first grader when she did her math in colorful crayon. At the parent teacher conference her teacher told her mother that Catherine was not to do her math in crayon. Years later, in High School, Catherine had the opportunity to study under  renowned Utah artist Donald P. Olsen. As it turned out her first grade teacher was Mr. Olsen’s wife. You would think an artist’s wife would understand the need for creativity- even in math! Today patterns, animals, people and simple treasures of life often grace her canvas. Her palette blossoms with vibrant, joyful color.   Unfortunately she has never done very well in math.

Catherine received early recognition for art as one of ten finalists for the state of Utah as an Art Sterling Scholar, (thanks to Mr. Olsen). Through the years she has received numerous awards for her artwork, and had a piece featured in the Wall Street Journal’s SmartMoney magazine. 

In 2007-2009 Catherine served as Vice President and President of the Utah Watercolor Society and was a delegate for the Western Federation of Watercolor Societies. She is a Signature member of the Intermountain Society of Artists and Utah Watercolor Society. She is also an honorary member of UWS. Catherine served as President of Local Colors of Utah Art Gallery in Salt Lake City, 2007-2019.

Catherine finds her 5 children a great pleasure and counts them as her richest blessing. She has two handsome grandsons and two darling granddaughters. She makes her home in the Salt Lake Valley.