hello!
My name is Pauline, and I have a passion for all things creative.
I consider myself an enthusiastic and innovative person, which boldly translates into the creative realm. Whether I’m working on graphic design, a digital project, or painting, I know I’m doing what I love.
When I am not designing or painting, I can usually be found planning my next trip, tearing down walls in my house (in true HGTV fashion), or getting some fresh air walking my herd of dogs, Duke, Arthur, and Kahlua.
The painting that started it all. This was the very first painting I created after nearly a decade long hiatus. The original is not for sale as it serves as a constant reminder in my home that it’s never too late to start again. You can, however, purchase art prints of this “Red Sand Beach” painting here!
my story
I find that my life has taken me on a couple different creative paths simultaneously.
After graduating with a bachelor’s degree—majoring in fine arts and painting—I started my career as a graphic designer, hustled my way through some freelance side gigs, transitioned to a web designer, and spent a few years managing a team of graphic designers and web specialists. Currently, with over ten years in the professional design industry, I work full time as a Senior Digital Designer/Developer.
I stopped painting for nearly a decade after I graduated college while I focused on building my career. I came to the realization that there was something missing in my life and nervously picked up a paintbrush to try to reignite that creative spark. If you’ve ever suffered from imposter syndrome, then I’m sure you’ll understand how much of a challenge it was liking my work, especially after this large of a gap in painting. I forced myself to start sharing my work with family, friends, and on social media, which started the Key and Sea Creative brand.
the brand
Ever since I was a child, I have been intrigued by skeleton keys. I hold close many memories of searching through flea markets and antique stores to find the perfect key to add to my collection. There’s something about how different each key is, and the mystery behind what it could unlock, that I find so intriguing.
In combination with my key collection, I have felt, and always will feel, a never-ending love for the ocean. Everything about it—the colors, the sounds, the smells—invokes inspiration.
When I was deciding on a name for my business, I wanted to draw inspiration from memories that I cherish. I wanted a name that felt like me, not just something catchy, although I must say, it did end up having quite the ring to it!
it's a team effort
I’d be lying if I said I did this all myself.
Duke
Security
Duke, the OG, has been with the Key and Sea brand since 2016–even before it was officially founded. He spends most of his workday sniffing snacks in the breakroom and sleeping on the job.
Arthur
Public Relations
Arthur was brought on in 2020 and quickly became a star in the public eye. He’s one of the friendliest guys you’ll ever meet and has no problems making meaningful connections.
Kahlua
Fun Committee
The newest addition to the team, Kahlua, joined in 2022. Though she is early on in her career, her can-do attitude has already proven to boost morale by leaps and bounds.