Karen O'Brien is a self-taught artist, writer and teacher. Her creative journey began in the world of teddy bear and doll making and expanded into mixed media painting. Karen's artwork and articles have appeared in several magazines including Faces, Somerset Studio, Art Journaling and Art Doll Quarterly. Her book, Imaginary Characters: Mixed Media Techniques for Figures and Faces published by North Light Books, was released in December 2015. Karen's Golden Rule Studio is located at her home in beautiful Grants Pass Oregon, where she creates, writes and teaches.

Artist Statement
I use whatever materials inspire me as I search for my characters. I strive to convey a sense of empathy and harmony with my soulful, contemporary "folk". My approach to teaching is: "no mistakes, just dive in and see what happens." I believe in playful curiosity, learning to see and trusting the creative process.