Everyday Beauty - Kirty

I first saw Kirty perform at The Garrison in Toronto. She was the opening act for Harvey Cameron, my friend's band that I was waiting to watch. There she was, this auburn hair shaking hip swaying guitar playing girl, and it made me want to find out more.

Kirty grew up in Orillia, Ontario, always surrounded by music. Her mother taught her how to play guitar, and she played trumpet all throughout high school. She attended Humber College for their Contemporary Music program. At 26, she's already released her first album through independent grants from a variety of Toronto art councils, and she's working on a new album that will be released under a label.

She describes her music as beachy, rock, folk. She quotes Bruce Springsteen, Sarah Harmer, Blue Rodeo and Neil Young as musical inspirations, as well as her family and ex-boyfriends.

Her look is anything but manufactured pop star. Her hair, that amazing hair, she tell me that she doesn't even brush it. She believes in self-confidence, and not taking her appearance too seriously.

"It's not healthy to look in the mirror too much," she said."I try not to hold onto anything even if I have it."

She explained that she is always seeking change, and music is her version of therapy. Photographing her was an honour, and I bet we'll be seeing her and hearing her music on more than this little blog.

To listen to some of her tunes, visit kirtymusic.com. Below are some photos I took. Enjoy!