Gallery Exhibitions

Artist Statement

“Before I begin painting, I look at each piece of wood as an untold story. The wear and tear of the wood, the found stains, or even the gouges and knots have a history of its own. Those details start to guide me as I begin to create and the result is a painting that has not only been influenced by the wood itself, but also from my own experiences and stories throughout the process. The most interesting part for me, is knowing that what I have created might find itself passed on to someone else, becoming part of another unfolding story.“

Biography

Karen studied art at York University, Ryerson Polytechnic and private institutions within Toronto, which included courses in graphic design, life drawing and photography. After years of working for a 3D computer graphics company, Karen created a handcrafted home accessories line, called Handcrafted by KK, which sold throughout Canada and The United States. In 2003, she started exploring abstract painting on weathered pieces of wood, and decided to solely focus on developing as an artist. Her work has been shown in various solo and group exhibitions in Canada, and has been purchased by clients throughout Canada, The United States, Europe and Asia. A full time artist, Karen currently lives in Toronto, Canada.

Technique

Karen works on reclaimed wood, using a fresco technique that involves the use of stain, oil and acrylics, applied to wet and dried plaster. She uses tools, once the surface is dry, to scrap the surface and allow the character of the wood to show through. Layers of colour and depth impact each piece once a thin layer of  non-yellowing epoxy resin is applied as a finish.

For more information please visit the artist's website, www.karenkawarsky.com