ABOUT

Katie Bretzlaff
CEO & Owner, Hedgeapple Arts | Artist | Educator 

With over two decades of experience, Katie Bretzlaff brings a dynamic blend of creativity, leadership, and heart to her work as an artist and art educator. She is passionate about making the arts more accessible and meaningful for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Rooted in a deep commitment to community, Katie founded Kankakee County’s first Empty Bowls event, an annual gathering that unites artists, restaurants, and neighbors to combat food insecurity. She currently serves on the board of the Kankakee Development Corporation and has also served on the Riverview Historic District board. 

Throughout her career in public education, Katie spent over 20 years teaching high school Art, Digital Photography, and Yearbook, and also worked at the elementary and middle school levels. She developed AP Studio Art programs, founded the first BBCHS Art Honor Society and Gay-Straight Alliance, and created Digital Photography and Art Club opportunities at IWHS. In addition to her K–12 work, she has taught as an adjunct professor of Art.

Katie has exhibited her artwork both locally and in Chicago, sharing her perspective through painting, ceramics, and mixed media. In addition to studio work, she has contributed to public art initiatives in her community, including the Kankakee Mallow & Dahlia mural in downtown Kankakee, located on the east wall of Martinez Tacos across from City Hall.

Professional development has been a key focus throughout her career, with Katie offering workshops and guidance on curriculum planning, emerging technologies, and supporting student creativity in meaningful ways. Her curatorial experience includes preparing and jurying exhibitions and guiding students through the exhibition process.

In 2022, Katie launched Hedgeapple Arts, LLC - a creative studio designed to offer engaging, hands-on art experiences for both new and experienced artists. The studio hosts classes, workshops, and events that nurture creativity and foster artistic exploration in a supportive environment.

Beyond the studio, Katie facilitates the Kankakee County CEO program, where she mentors high school students in entrepreneurship through hands-on projects, local business engagement, and professional networking - continuing to build meaningful connections throughout the community. 

Her academic foundation includes an M.A. in Art Education from The Ohio State University and a B.S. in Art Education with an English teaching endorsement from Olivet Nazarene University.

Katie is dedicated to creating more arts opportunities for people in Kankakee County and beyond and welcomes both experienced and novice artists to explore their creative side at Hedgeapple Arts.