(Image: Karen Schnepf, Colors Layered 1 , 2012, mixed media, 12" x 12"; © Karen Schnepf)

Karen Schnepf (b. Le Mars, IA)

My "painted path" started in childhood, alongside my Dad. He, a wood carver, builder; and me, well, just childish coloring at first; and later learning the ropes of color, line and individuality. It hasn't been glamorous, simply a step at a time, moving on from the last interest to the next. "Coloring outside the lines” has been the approach that I take towards my artwork. I love experimenting with new uses for materials and products and tweaking old techniques; I am easily bored with the "ordinary" and must move on. I challenge myself by working with products that will tease my creative process with possibilities. My work is usually non-objective abstracts, using bold strokes and vivid colors in unexpected ways. I use a variety of mediums: acrylics, oil pastels, pencil, paper and other mediums on canvas or panel. The paintings are often finished with several gloss coats that make the colors “pop” and give the pieces a sleek, contemporary feel. My goal is to create artwork that is innovative, colorful and fresh. The trend has come to be dark and mysterious in works of art, I counteract that with beautiful, straightforward and vivid color. Color has become the prominent characteristic of my work.

Art is so individual and so inviting, I can’t imagine life without it.

Karen Schnepf was chosen as a Winner in Round #3 of the 2012 Showcase Series.

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