About Karen: I wasn't always an artist

Artist’s statement:

Something wonderful happens when I sit down at the wheel with a lump of clay. The world fades away as the wheel spins. That clay slowly becomes a cup, a bowl, a plate, or a vase. I like to make functional pieces that can be used everyday. I enjoy having my morning cup of coffee in a mug I spent three days tending at a local wood fire kiln or using a bowl that has my favorite blue and brown glaze combination. I just go with the flow when the bowl I anticipated making decides to become a plate. That's the beauty of working with clay. It is such a fluid art form.

I Wasn't Always an Artist

I was a management professional for my most of my life in a variety of roles and industries; hospitality, health care, teacher-trainer, marketing and most importantly the family CFO. The artist in me has been a slow awakening of personal self.

My mother was an artist. Growing up I can remember the smell of oil paints and the canvas that filled the walls of our house. I always admired my mom’s work.

In 1998, a friend from work invited me to join her Wednesday night pottery class with teacher Raechel Wilson. That night began my artists’ journey and the awakening of my artist within. Wednesday was my night out once a week without kids, husband, job, house, home etc. and I was struck with a new-found passion.

Years later, I can be found in my studio in our Nevada desert backyard; built through the efforts of my wonderful husband Don who supports me in all my crazy endeavors along with the many friends and family who have time and time again supported me and my art. And so began Dreams to Reality Pottery.