08/18/2026
WEI will be hosting Kip Stafford and Fruitland Valley Vineyard September 3rd 5-8pm the First Thursday Art Walk
Artist Profile — Kip Stafford | The Barn ChicksKip Stafford of The Barn Chicksis a whimsical artist who finds inspiration in the simple beauty of natureand the peaceful life she shares with her husband and their dog, Lucy, in the woods near Sacheen Lake.Kip has been painting on and off for more than 40 years. While raising four children, her artwork often tooka back seat, but the creative spark never disappeared. Living in the snow belt, Kip found herself looking forsomething meaningful and enjoyable to fill those long winter months. That led her back to painting andeventually to the art ofwood burning, giving her another way to bring her ideas and love of nature to life.Today, Kip createsacrylic paintings on canvas, wood-burned artwork, and whimsical greeting cards.Her greeting cards have become one of her favorite things to create. There is something special to herabout making a little piece of art that can bring a smile to someone's face or brighten someone's day.Much of Kip's inspiration comes from the world around her —trees, wildflowers, wildlife, and the littledetails found in nature. Living among the woods gives her an endless supply of ideas, and she lovesturning those everyday discoveries into colorful, playful works of art.For the past few years, Kip has also enjoyed participating in local farmers markets. For her, the markets areabout much more than selling artwork. They give her a chance to meet people, share her creativity, and hopefully bring a little happiness into their lives.“It makes me happy to create, and I hope my art makes others happy too.”That simple idea is at the heart of The Barn Chicks — creating whimsical, heartfelt pieces inspired by nature,life, and the joy found in the little things.