Color and light-filled canvases of Karen Hale transport the viewer into a world of ethereal beauty. Visit her website to see more of her artwork.
The quaint and small gold country town of Jackson, California is where I make my home. This is where more than a century ago adventurers searched for treasure. With my paintings, I encourage the viewer to do the same; to search for their own personal meaning and make discoveries along the way.
My “color work” abstract paintings have been called dynamic, bold, explosive, and exciting. Over the past year and a half, I have been developing a new line of abstract landscapes that have a more serene and calming feel. Bringing feeling, harmony and movement to either style is my goal. I love the challenge of experimenting with new materials and ideas.
I have been a full time working artist for over forty five years. Even though I have no formal training, much of what I learned came at father’s side who was a commercial artist. I have always been fascinated with various materials and how they interact and pride myself on my “dare to try” attitude.
The motivation to excel results in abstract images that feel free and spontaneous but exude design and beauty. Texture, dimension, color, and good design are the basis for my work.
Since I work with many layers of various mediums I choose to work in acrylics. Their fast drying properties lends itself to my technique of adding washes and glazes which reveal the layers below; sometimes altering colors and generating nuances of form and hue. The paintings may include texture medium, chalk pastel, found papers, pen, graphite and/or metallic leafing. All of these elements give the piece depth and interest.
A number of different implements are used to achieve the finished product such as things I may find in the garage or kitchen as well as traditional artists brushes and tools. Anything is fair game to my way of thinking. The edges of my paintings are painted black to give them a complete look. Each has a clear gloss UV protective finish.
My work can be found throughout the world in private collections and commercial enterprises. Go on your own journey of discovery and enjoy the magnificent exploration of color, texture and depth.
Karen Hale invites you to follow her on Facebook and Pinterest.
Absolutely beautiful work! Even though they look so spontaneous and free, I can see that they are carefully choreographed as to colour, texture and composition. This is what elevates a non-representational abstract from banal to powerful and mesmerizing. Thank you for sharing Karen’s work!
What a beautiful observation Dorothy – I completely agree!
Thank you very much Dorothy. I do love what I do and am very appreciative of your
kind words.
Karen, I have watched many of your videos posted on YouTube and I am mesmerized by your style of creating, use of colors and the dept of your art. Thank you so very much for sharing!