The weekly Farmers’ Market Spotlights are sponsored by Independence Bank.
From blooming bouquets to delicate wildlife, KJ’s Garden Arts captures Kentucky’s natural beauty through artistic expression. This summer marks the business’s debut as a local vendor with the Owensboro Regional Farmers Market. Appearing twice a month, KJ’s Garden Arts offers handcrafted prints and original artwork inspired by outdoor scenery to shoppers.
The business was founded by owner Karen Alward in 2024 following her retirement as a Daviess County Public Schools teacher and performing arts coordinator. Although Alward has long been involved in the fine arts, she did not begin creating visual artwork until 2023.
After suffering a severe brain injury from a car crash, she turned to art as a new form of self-expression. As she worked to rebuild her strength, Alward’s talent became both a source of healing and the foundation for her new business.
“Finding some creativity in those quieter moments is something I’ve really learned to enjoy,” said Alward.
KJ’s Garden Arts is one of 36 new vendors at the market for the 2026 season.
Alward said that without an online presence, the market provides valuable exposure to customers who would otherwise not have come across her work. She said she hopes that experience marks the beginning of many years at the Owensboro Regional Farmers Market.
“I love the sense of community there – it’s not just about food; it’s about coming together, experiencing and sharing things,” said Alward. “I feel like it’s a place I can call home.”
Alward said that beyond sales, the vendor space also strengthens her relationships with customers and fellow entrepreneurs. She said that the market provides a safe space to discuss art with customers, share the stories behind her work, and witness firsthand the responses to her pieces.
“There are a lot of ways to make connections with the variety of customers at the market,” said Alward. “It’s a great way to establish a small business.”
Each artwork from KJ’s Garden Arts begins as a simple drawing in Alward’s sketchbook, then is brought to life with watercolors, jelly printing, acrylics, or oil pastels. From there, the finished pieces are turned into a variety of products available for purchase. Merchandise includes painted canvases, custom clothing, and framed prints to unique birdhouses, greeting cards, and personalized bookmarks. Most creations feature wildflower arrangements or scenic landscapes. Bestsellers have included printed tote bags and a Bridgerton-style bookmark series.
As an independent artist, Alward focuses on refining her skills by following online tutorials, reading, and practicing the creative exercises that helped develop her artistic style years ago. She also applies that experience in the classroom, teaching art classes at Foust Elementary School two days a week, where she encourages creative expression and guides students through basic techniques. Alward said the experience motivates her to discover new approaches to the medium and keeps her inspired today.
“I look forward to my next few years and not only growing my business, but my skill as an artist.”
As KJ’s Garden Arts looks to future years, the business aims to pursue a continued space with the market alongside expanding a presence at regional venues. Alward said she looks forward to experimenting with new mediums in her work and sharing her passion for artistic expression beyond the market.
Owensboro residents can spot some of Alward’s original pieces hung along the walls of Fetta Specialty Pizza and Niko’s Bakery and Café. KJ’s Garden Arts can be found on Facebook, where photos of Alward’s work are posted along with vendor and schedule updates.
