About

Kathleen Nelson in her studio.

Kathleen Rickert Nelson is a local artist, historian, and speaker. She creates beautifully detailed illustrations in pen and ink and watercolor. She specializes in historical structures, architecture, homes, and monuments.

Kathleen studied at Harrington Institute of Interior Design in Chicago, IL and was recognized for her two student designs while attending Harrington.

One design was a residential apartment design of Lake Point Tower, Chicago. The American Society of Interior Designers awarded her for that design. The National Society of Interior Designers awarded Kathleen for her commercial design of a ski resort/restaurant.

Kathleen also produced for the Lake Zurich, IL Centennial several illustrations, one notable being the Robertson Home. It was the parent’s home of John Robertson. John and Julia owned the Robertson Home in Barrington, IL. The home is now the Barrington White House. Another notable illustration, penned by Kathleen is the President Lincoln and Soldiers’ Home National Monument also known as the “Cottage” for the National Trust and Historic Preservation, Washington, DC.

Kathleen Nelson Fine Art offers gift packages that include the original illustration in pen and ink and with added water color.  Illustrations are paired with note cards, porcelain ornaments, platters, and appetizer plates. They make unique one of a kind gifts.

In 2014 Quintessential Barrington magazine commissioned Kathleen to illustrate the cover art and a series of 14 unique chapter images for the interior of its special Sesquicentennial edition. Read more about the project: QB-Kathleen Nelson.