Born in Madison County, Iowa, Karen grew up observing, appreciating and learning from the beauty these rich farmlands provide. She received a master’s degree and enjoyed a career in nursing before deciding to follow her heart and passion; art. During these years of life, travel and new experiences, Karen focused her spare time (and her viewfinder!) on the beauty and stories in the world around her. 

Since Karen’s entrance into the art field, she has studied both at local and national levels in watercolor, acrylics, pastels and oil. An interest in Eastern calligraphy and design has  led to continued adventures in Chinese brush painting and Sumi-e. 

"History has given us many great masters in art.  When it comes to drawing and line, Egon Schiele and Paul Klee are at the top of my list. Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent and Joseph Raffael have caused me to pause and grow quiet as I have studied their works. Designs by Vera Neumann make my heart sing. However, the artists that speak of the truth closest to my heart are those  who evolved from the Chinese Cultural Revolution to become the Yunnan School painters.  My favorites in this category are: Ting Shao Kuang, Jiang Tiefeng, Zhou Ling and He Neng".