Conversations with Catherine McCabe

Today we’d like to introduce you to Catherine McCabe.

Hi Catherine, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m a fourth-generation Coloradan and the youngest of five — with four older brothers, I learned early on how to carve out my own space and creativity became my favorite form of play. I tried the “traditional” route for a while — first nursing, then education — before graduating in hospitality management with a minor in environmentalism and sustainability. Even though I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do at the time, I always knew I was drawn to travel, storytelling, and experiential living.

I thought I’d end up working in tourism, but somewhere along the way, I realized what I was really craving was creative expression. I’ve always drawn and painted, and as an adult, film and street photography became my way to document life, emotion, and the places I explored. That hobby evolved into creative direction, set design, acting, and eventually multimedia art.

Today, I work as an art and creative director between Brooklyn and Denver — blending photography, design, and experiential storytelling. I’ve built a career that allows me to lean into all of my creative passions and explore multiple styles and mediums every day. I’m really grateful to do work that feels like an extension of my curiosity and love for both people and place — always finding new ways to turn life itself into art.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Yes and no — I think being an artist is inherently uncomfortable. We’re constantly exploring new ideas, emotions, and environments, and then sharing that work publicly, which is its own form of vulnerability. Learning how to be a “well-fed” artist — one who is both creatively fulfilled and financially supported — has been a journey in itself, especially coming from a background where I didn’t have a model for what that looked like.

There have been seasons of doubt, comparison, and uncertainty, but also immense growth. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to build a community of artists and creatives who are on a similar path. That sense of community has made all the difference — it’s what keeps me grounded through the ups and downs of the creative path.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I work as an art and creative director between Brooklyn and Denver, creating across photography, set design, visual campaigns, and mixed media art. My work often explores transformation — how our inner and outer worlds reflect one another — and I love turning emotion into something tangible.

I think I’m most known for my ability to translate ideas and feelings into visuals that tell a story. Whether it’s directing a photo campaign, designing an installation, or creating a fine art piece, I approach everything with the same curiosity: how can I make someone feel something real? My background in hospitality and sustainability also influences how I think about space, experience, and human connection — I want the things I create to feel alive and intentional.

What I’m most proud of is that I’ve built a creative career that allows me to explore multiple passions at once — photography, design, storytelling, and art direction — without having to fit into one box. I think what sets me apart is that blend of range and sincerity. I treat every project like a collaboration and an act of translation — helping people, brands, or stories come to life in a way that feels both artful and emotionally honest.

What does success mean to you?
Simultaneous peace and security in expression

Pricing:

• All budgets are project based! I cater pricing to needs of the client, and their budget, while honoring my experience and expertise

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.catmccabe.me/
• Instagram: cat.ofall.trades

Image Credits
Photo 1: Idi Camara
Photos 2 &3: woody Roseland
Photo 5: Colleen.captures
Photos 6,7,&8 are all my mixed media, graphic design, and photography