At the age of 18, Catherine Starkman began her career as a photographer, working for the press, fashion and doing street reporting in black and white. At the same time, she started some classes at the Beaux Arts of Paris and at different painting workshops. The legendary french comedian, Coluche discovered Starkman’s photos and asked her to be the photographer for his Photo comic book entitled "The Poor are Idiots". Catherine worked with Coluche on this project for several years. 

Then turning to painting, Starkman began a series of large formats featuring geometric, abstract and figurative, silhouettes and portraits often African inspired. Starkman moved in the 90’s from Paris  to New York where she lived for nearly 20 years.

Catherine has practiced painting, drawing and photography throughout her career. 

Upon returning to France, she set up her studio in Provence.

Starkman exhibits in France, Europe and the United States. Her works are part of public and private collections. 

Last year, she exhibited her abstract paintings at the Yoshii Gallery in Paris, her African-inspired paintings at the Gallifet Art Center in Aix en Provence and  her photos at the Museum of Photography, in Charleroi, Belgium.