Krause’s life-long passion and love for art as a hobby has evolved into a journey of self-discovery and a determination to pursue art as a full-time business. Krause’s diagnosis with Spinocerebellar Ataxia in 2009 and Ankylosing Spondylitis in 2017 inspired her to challenge herself through her artistic expressions, with an emphasis on abstract and fluid art conveying emotion through color and movement.

As a fluid artist or pour painter, Krause sells her pour paintings online or at art shows. She also does custom commissioned pour paintings.

“I’ve had clients from California to Florida,” said Krause. “Before COVID, I was offering classes at my studio in downtown Grand Forks which are currently on hold.”

What was your first job once you finished your service?

I was a videographer/editor.

What led you to military service?

I’ve always felt drawn to service and had great respect for those in service and their sacrifice.

Did you take advantage of military benefits when starting your business?

Yes, I worked with the VBOC, the SBA and participated in the Veteran Entrepreneurship Boot-Camp

What skill that you learned in your military service do you use most in your business career?

Drive and tenacity

Would you have been able to start a business without your military experience? Why or why not?

Yes, I think so but I don’t know if I would’ve built my business so fast without having that experience.

What words of encouragement do you have for a fellow veteran nervous about taking the plunge into entrepreneurship – or maybe a veteran who started a business and is struggling?

Use to tools the military provides now, there are so many possibilities.

Many veterans struggle with finding a sense of purpose when reintegrating into the civilian world. How can getting involved in the business community help with that reintegration process?

Have a clear business plan and dream that you can achieve that’s realistically attainable.