Biography

Karen has been painting and winning awards since her college days at California College of the Arts, and later earning a special teaching credential in art and a degree from California State University San Jose. She is an active member of many art organizations and has won numerous awards. She was one of the founders of the Iron Door Gallery in Murphys, California. She has exhibited in many galleries including ones in Carmel, California and Taos, New Mexico. Karen and her husband, Mike, live in northern California’s Sierra foothills which is a beautiful area in which to live and for her to get inspiration to paint.

Karen paints with fluid acrylics and with watercolors. Her paintings often start with a spontaneous abstract background, using strong colors and lots of paint. After studying her background painting from many angles, she visualizes areas that could become flowers, vases, fish, trees, etc. She then captures those areas, bringing her painting to life. Her technique of lifting off paint, as well as applying many layers of paint, adds an exciting textural interest to her paintings. Her challenge, and her passion, is exploring new and exciting ways of expressing very traditional subjects.

Karen’s original work is exhibited at the Harbinger Gallery in Arnold, California. (209-795-5957, www.harbingergallery.net/oneill.htm). Usually in September of each year she is the Gallery’s featured artist exhibiting many new paintings. Check the galleries website or call Greg at the gallery for details.