Welcome to Wildkin
Wildkin is an alternative photography studio, artwork shop, and creative kinship space dedicated to the slow, intentional work of analogue art and printmaking. Built on the belief that creativity is an inherent gift within us all, we bridge the gap between creative vision and tactile reality. By honouring the raw, patient beauty of the darkroom, Wildkin connects people to the physical world and the joy of handmade art, fostering a grounded community built on shared creation.
My Story
I am Karen Louise George, and my story begins in the darkroom with an eye for finding the “wild”- not in a destination, but in a way of seeing – in the intricate details of the everyday. I studied photography through school and university, earning a BA Hons degree and falling in love with the elemental, traditional techniques of the darkroom.
Seeking a deliberate choice to step away from the fast-paced, digital world and focus on slowness, I founded The Wild Darkroom. For five years, my very first production space was literally our upstairs airing cupboard – the only place in the house dark enough to prepare the cyanotype paper. Following a recent house move, I was incredibly blessed to upgrade to a dedicated studio space that beautifully combines family life with running a small business. I now cherish the garden right next to the studio, which lets me create using the sun, or my UV lamps when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Like many graduates, I didn’t immediately find a job in my field, which led to roles in London post-production and then in marketing. After having our first child, I chose to start my own business to weave work into my family life, inspired by my dad who started his own business when I was young. This choice was rooted in a belief in stewardship: using my gifts to provide for my family and bless my community, prioritising continuous learning and deep connections over rapid growth.
The Flow of Wildkin
Over time, my desire for intentional, soulful creation grew stronger. I wanted to build an ecosystem that championed independent artists and collaborative craft, which led to the change to Wildkin.
Today, the space is built upon three core pillars:
- The Studio & Darkroom: This is where I create original art and handcrafted cyanotype paper and kits, where I share with you how I work and share with you my artwork and printing process.
- The Shop: A curated gallery space championing independent creativity. Every piece chosen tells a story, and buying art from the shop directly sustains the livelihoods of working artists.
- The Kinship: My heart has always been to bring people together around a creative table. I host approachable in-person workshops in and around Faversham, completely stripping away the intimidation of darkroom and art making. I also act as a technical partner, providing bespoke cyanotype printing services to help other artists bring their work to life.
Behind the Scenes
I make it look good with my photography but the truth is that small businesses run with a lot of grit and early mornings in the office/studio. Scruffy hair and pyjamas are definitely a regular in the studio when I am making up orders and painting all day and ignoring the housework is definitely a life goal! I will do my best to show you the real amongst making it look beautiful – although I believe the beauty is in the roughness of it all!
Thank you for being here, especially if you made it this far! xx
Seeking a deliberate choice to step away from the fast-paced, digital world and focus on slowness, I founded The Wild Darkroom. For five years, my very first production space was literally our upstairs airing cupboard – the only place in the house dark enough to prepare the cyanotype paper. Following a recent house move, I was incredibly blessed to upgrade to a dedicated studio space that beautifully combines family life with running a small business. I now cherish the garden right next to the studio, which lets me create using the sun, or my UV lamps when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Like many graduates, I didn’t immediately find a job in my field, which led to roles in London post-production and then in marketing. After having our first child, I chose to start my own business to weave work into my family life, inspired by my dad who started his own business when I was young. This choice was rooted in a belief in stewardship: using my gifts to provide for my family and bless my community, prioritising continuous learning and deep connections over rapid growth.
