Bio And Artist Statement
Karen began to draw as a small child while bedridden with illness for several years. She was intrigued by the idea of being able to create a separate world of her own making, her own choices of what would be in that world. The placing of a few lines could represent this world and it seemed a small miracle. She felt a strong desire to improve her drawing skills in order to show this inner world more accurately and came to realize that she needed good reference to observe and work from. Karen took art lessons from the age of 8.
I am hard pressed to decide if oil paint or pastel is my favorite medium. Both involve rich colour and a sumptuous feel when applied to canvas or paper. They blend magically and lend themselves to any look desired whether transparent or opaque, precise detail or spontaneous looseness. I also love drawing with both graphite and coloured pencils and see every piece of blank paper as an invitation.
Karen's favorite subject is the human face and form, with pensive or questioning expressions and graceful, or sometimes quirky poses. Complementary colour schemes, strong diagonal compositions, cast shadows, pattern and reflected light all influence her choices, especially in still life and nature subjects. She likes to come in close to the subject and generally does not paint narratives or scenes.
I have lately been investigating the connection I see between young adolescents and flowers and plants, which combine vulnerability with bravado in expression and demeanor. There is a moment in the life of both young humans and young plants when full bloom is imminent and holds such promise. I am also interested in the full cycle from bud to wilting; painting is a way to come to terms with the mystery of purpose and collective mortality.
Finally Karen is also a sometimes fibre artist. She has been a weaver, silk painter, embroiderer, quilter, sewer, knitter, crocheter, costume designer, and fabriholic with a cache of textiles that are crying out to be utilized in upcoming paintings.