Kelly Davies | Kathryn Janeway “Star Trek: Voyager”

“My interest in Star Trek came about during the late 80’s when I first saw Star Trek the Next Generation. I had watched a lot of the Original series but it was TNG that drew me in. My favourite series by far is Star Trek Voyager. I was fourteen years old when the series aired. Captain Janeways character was deeply important to me and I feel that her character had a huge influence on me during that time of my life. Other than my school work, all I did was watch Voyager with my brother and draw the characters from the show. During the 90’s young women were screaming out for strong, intelligent and charismatic role models. During these formative years I was struggling hugely with my sexuality. Homosexuality was not particularly tolerated at this time. Janeways character helped me to stay strong and unafraid.

During a family vacation to California we took a studio tour of the Paramount studios in LA. While we were being shown around the sets and buildings my uncle drew my attention to the fact that Kate Mulgrew was just across the street from us. She was in her costume and saying good bye to one of her cast mates. I don’t remember which one as I was stood gawking. I would have only been 15 years old at the time and I was star struck. If I could slip through a time portal I would tell my younger self to run across the street and tell Kate how much I loved her work.

I have so much to thank Kathryn Janeway for, which sounds absurd given the fact that she is a character from a tv show. To so many of us, Kate Mulgrew flawless portrayal of Captain Janeway has provided a role model to look up to and admire.

Last year I was fortunate enough to work on the advertisement of the final Season of OITNB. A portrait I painted of Kate portraying ‘Red’ from the series was featured on Netflix and billboards across the world. I saw my artwork on a bill board in New York and for me, that was an achievement so deeply gratifying I can die an insanely happy artist.”

— Kelly Davies