Karen Haring is inspired by the landscape of cactus, sage and mountains surrounding her home studio as well as the local blend of Native, Hispanic, and Ranch cultures.
Karen has had a deep love for art since early childhood, growing up in an artistic family in the New York Metropolitan area. Here she was surrounded by art not just at home but also at the great museums and galleries of NYC. Art was everywhere. Fascinated by having her portrait drawn as a youth in Greenwich Village in the sixties, Karen aspired to become an artist herself. The recognition of winning a Best in Show Award for her self portrait at an early age , encouraged her in the pursuit of her art. She went on to develop a love for the great masters of the Renaissance while studying in Italy and for the French Impressionists while in Paris. Karen has studied at the Art Students League of New York as well as the University of Texas.
Moving to the West opened up a wonderful new world of art for her. While living north of Taos , New Mexico, Karen’s love for the western landscape and native culture grew. The Taos Society of Artists are a constant source of inspiration .
Karen has enjoyed a successful career, with her work called worldwide. She has exhibited her artwork in various shows and galleries in the Southwest. Additionally Karen enjoys teaching portraiture in person and online.
Statement
I am passionate about expressing my inner self through the human face and figure. I love the beautiful proportions, forms, and their unique ability to express mood and emotions.
Whether from a live model,, photo reference or my imagination, I always aspire to connect with the viewer by creating an intriguing expression and mood. I am constantly seeking to achieve this in different ways, ranging from realism to abstraction.
Currently I am exploring realism in oils and acrylic as well as a more playful style using watercolor and pastels. My subject is often the female form, inspired by women from various cultures, particularly the American West.