After careers in radio, television, and gallery ownership, Karen brings a distinctive perspective to her large-scale abstracted paintings. Her work is held in notable private and permanent collections nationwide and is celebrated for its sophisticated interpretations of landscapes, waterways, and the elemental rhythms of nature.

Atmospheric and nuanced, her paintings evoke a powerful sense of place while balancing abstraction with recognizable forms. Ideas for new bodies of work emerge through ongoing exploration, travel, and teaching, where the exchange of ideas often sparks unexpected inspiration. This spirit of discovery was further shaped during nearly a decade living aboard a 55-foot motor yacht aptly named M.Y. Plein Air, deepening her connection to waterways, shifting horizons, and the ever-changing patterns found in nature. Through layered textures, luminous color, and gestural mark-making, Karen creates immersive works that capture both the energy and tranquility of the natural world.

Karen divides her time between studios in South Florida and South Carolina.  Art lovers are welcome to experience her work in progress at her public studio located within the first-floor Artist Studios at Design Center of the Americas (DCOTA) in Dania Beach, Florida.

“She has an innate sense of color and composition and when it is coupled with the way she handles the media, magic occurs.” – Theresa Golas, Director of The Iredell Museums, Statesville, NC.

Artist Statement

"My work is always evolving. Whether I'm in the studio working on large-scale or small paintings en plein air I work passionately to capture my personal direct response to the environment and the light. I find that working intuitively, sometimes even with wild abandon helps me stay loose and free and leads to new discovery. " 
- Karen

Filmed in Sintra, Portugal