The Face of Malibu is an ongoing public portrait project by portraitist Johanna Spinks to record the many unique personalities and newsmakers who shape the modern Malibu community. Each sitter is always painted in a single live sitting. If there is someone you would like to nominate, please email Emily Sawicki at emily@malibutimes.com. To see more of Spinks’ portrait work, visit johannaspinks.com.
Kimberly Devane is known as “the girl with the big black dog,” as she walks her dog Guido on the beach every morning and makes sure to pick up one bag of trash per day. She says it’s a spiritual offering to the ocean, which gives her peace and enjoyment. Devane is the owner of Divine Imaging Inc, a GSA-certified MAS Contractor reselling an array of office products and equipment to the Federal Government.
Born and raised in Upstate New York, Devane’s parents brought her and her siblings to California for a better and warmer life. She has been living in Malibu for 25 years. She was instrumental in erecting one of the first pieces of public art in Malibu — the incomparable Herb Alpert’s totem sculpture “Freedom.”
The Malibu Times got a chance to sit down with the woman who believes we have the power to elevate our lives through action, our minds, thoughts, intention and work ethic.
When did you start Divine Imaging? What inspired you to open it?
I reinvented my life 15 years ago and started Divine — success can come at any age and circumstance if you really want it. Pondering the endless possibilities of my third act, I enjoy being a defense contractor and helping our men and women in uniform in some small way. We all are able to live these great lives because of their sacrifice and service. I support Wounded Warriors and think they are a very worthy organization.
Who or what do you owe the success of Divine Imaging to?
Clean mind, pure heart, visualization, strategic thought, persistence, hard work, intestinal fortitude, positive attitude and indomitable spirit
What is one way you give back to the community through Divine Imaging Alliance?
My 501(c)3 nonprofit organization is directed toward helping those who have helped me and our country through sacrifice, service and selflessness — our country’s finest — men and women in uniform. Wounded Warriors. I plan on doing much more now that I have the time.
How have the arts transformed Malibu?
Make Malibu more visually appealing and reflective of our cool citizenry. We need way more art and galleries…
What are your thoughts on the commercial development in Malibu?
I am a property owner so I believe in property owner’s rights. I also love the pristine open space of Malibu. If you want it left open, raise the money and buy it. If you are unable to do that, work with the property owner to build something beautiful and tasteful — a happy medium. Like most things, they split right down the middle — compromise, conversation, civil discourse, decorum and debate usually end with the best result.
Where do you see our country in the next four years with President Trump?
I decline to comment. Politics has become a very divisive and preachy topic. I am very happy President Trump will be rebuilding the Veteran’s Affairs & Hospitals. We need to take care of these heroes. We live our cushy Malibu lives in part due to their bravery, service and sacrifice. I think Ivanka is a class act and tremendous role model.
Do you have any regrets in life?
Who doesn’t? Why discuss? Forward bound — the passions, joys and possibilities of life are there for those who take, want and earn them.
What’s an interesting/unique fact about you that people don’t know?
I don’t do any social media and I carry a flip phone. I already work enough… what happened to mystery and privacy… elusiveness? Way more interesting to catch up in person.
What is your favorite thing about Malibu? If you could change one thing about Malibu what would it be and why?
The ability to move into open space so easily and get lost in beauty, thought and hear your inner voice — whether the ocean or the mountains — I love to move and think. Malibu is still so unique and special to me and I enjoy calling it home. Malibu attracts a diverse group of independent thinkers, ocean lovers, and passionate hearts — it’s stimulation to my soul. If I could change one thing about Malibu it would be clothing optional — just kidding.
How was it having your portrait painted by Johanna Spinks?
Wonderful, delightful and an honor. I thoroughly enjoyed having my portrait painted by Johanna Spinks. She is the consummate professional with an impressive resume — a committed and authentic artist. Her studio was lovely and we had delightful conversations and the time flew by.