| The
works of the German Expressionists and the Symbolists have always
intrigued Karen. She has always felt emotionally drawn to the vivid and
powerful imagery of Kathie Kollwitz, Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt. Like
some of these artists, Karen speaks to the viewer through symbols and
stylistic motifs.
Animals have been reoccurring subjects in Karen’s work for
several years. She grew up on a livestock farm and formed a strong
attachment to animals. Today, Karen has two dogs and two cats and is an
Ontario Humane Society Volunteer: "Animals are definitely a passion for
me. I feel compassion for all forms of life. Naturally, my feelings about
animals [have] transferred into my art." Her art is an exploration of
animals’ spiritual and natural qualities and how these co-exist with
industrial society. Through her primitive yet sophisticated style, she
combines abstract elements together to create happy and lighthearted
works. |
