The most common question I receive about my art is, "Who is KR?" The answer is simple: it's me—Kristina Readle.

You might wonder where the name Reyna Sunshine comes from. It’s a nickname I earned in high school. My upbringing was tumultuous, and I found myself living independently at just 16. Like many kids from difficult backgrounds, I sought a new family on the streets, which led me to the Latin Kings. I became a Latin Queen, the first in Danville, Illinois, and the first Queen in a Kings Chapter. During that time, I was deeply immersed in that lifestyle, and it is here that the name Reyna was born. I spelled it "Reyna" instead of the traditional "Reina" as a nod to my identity as a King, since "king" in Spanish is "Rey."

While I'm not proud of this chapter in my life, I don't feel ashamed either. I did what I had to in order to survive and find a sense of belonging. Eventually, becoming a single mother and facing arrest prompted me to leave that lifestyle behind, but I chose to keep the name.

I returned to Indianapolis, my birthplace, but my return was complicated; I was running from potential prison time after my last arrest, which could have resulted in a four-year sentence. 

Once back in Indy, I secured a job, met someone new, and soon found myself as a single mother of two, still navigating life "on the run."

Staying under the radar was essential, and I strictly used the name Reyna to protect my identity. For seven years, I managed to stay out of trouble until the statute of limitations ran out and I was finally free.

So why keep the name Reyna? Let’s revisit my unstable childhood. It was not just unstable—it was deeply abusive. Kristina was the girl who endured trauma and suffering, while Reyna represented strength and resilience. I believed Reyna would protect me from further harm. Perhaps it was my way of coping, or maybe I was in denial, but distancing myself from the name Kristina helped me heal, even if just a little.

The "Sunshine" part of my name was given to me by a neighbor who always called me Sunshine because I radiated warmth and happiness, even during tough times. It serves as a reminder of the love and light within me that no one could extinguish.

As for why I don't sign my art as Reyna Sunshine: that little girl, Kristina, deserves to be honored. She always dreamed of being an artist but felt she couldn't pursue that passion due to her circumstances. Reyna, however, is bold and unapologetic.

While I'm now more comfortable discussing my past, I still prefer to keep Kristina’s story safeguarded from those who may not honor it. So, I kindly ask that if you know me or meet me in the future, please call me Reyna.