I first met Linda Klein at her home studio when she invited me to look at some of her art. There is nothing quite like hearing firsthand from an artist about their work. So while this isn’t a plug for Marin Open Studios, it might as well be.
What do you do?
I create ecologically themed artwork infused with recycled collage elements. Large mountain or tree scapes splashed with vibrant watercolors and detailed with locally collected litter and recycled junk mail. Finally, something useful to do with all that junk mail!
Where do you live?
After 10 years in beautiful Forest Knolls, I moved with my husband to the house he was born in, in sweet little San Anselmo.
How long have you lived in Marin?
Nestled in the beauty of West Marin since 2009. That makes it 15 years!
Where can we find you when you’re not at work?
I’m in my art studio or working in the garden a lot. If I’m not there, I’m usually hiking, road biking or walking with my 93-year-old father, who lives in San Rafael. I also enjoy local theater, and I’m an avid fiction reader.
If you had to convince someone how awesome Marin is, where would you take them?
When anyone from out of town visits me, I make sure they get a drive through Lucas Valley Road. I do believe it’s one of the prettiest roads in Marin County.
What’s one thing Marin is missing?
A bowling alley. Good wholesome family fun.
What’s one bit of advice you’d share with your fellow Marinites?
Be kind always. You never know what kind of struggles somebody else is going through.
If you could invite anyone to dinner, who would that be?
Barbara Kingsolver. She is such an inspiring and talented author. I feel incredibly honored to have my artwork hanging in her home.
What’s some advice you wish you knew 20 years ago?
Sometimes no response is the best response.
What’s something that 20 years from now will seem cringeworthy?
Colonoscopies.
Big question. What’s one thing you’d do to change the world?
As I sit here trying to empty the ocean with a teaspoon… purchase less one-time-use plastic. If I could name two things, teach our young people to meditate in grade school.
Keep up with Klein on Instagram at @linda_klein_artist and at lindakleinart.com.
Nish Nadaraja was on the founding team at Yelp, serves on the San Anselmo Arts Commission and attempts to play pickleball at Fairfax’s Cañon Club.
