Kristian Gallagher founded her creative studio Modern Tropical in 2018 while on sabbatical in Hawaii. That same year, she was a winner of Pottery Barn x Minted’s Walls That Wow for her work “The Happiest Flowers”. Since then her work has been featured by several worldwide retailers. Her work "Let The Sunshine In" has been included in multiple “Best of” collections. Her catalogue of work has been licensed by US major retailers including Urban Outfitters, Target, and Macy’s. It has also been licensed by resort hospitality properties from Hawaii to Florida. 

She creates eclectic botanical illustrations as well as abstract landscapes. Her work is known for its whimsical style and vibrant colors.