Karen Hopkins

I have been a professional exhibiting artist since 1991, Karen has artworks in corporate and private collections both nationally and internationally. To date, I have held 24 solo exhibitions and participated in numerous group shows in Australia and overseas. I have a background in education and have been a professional exhibiting artist for over 20 years during which time I have held 23 solo exhibitions and participated in many groups shows in Australia and overseas. I predominantly paint, create sculptures and write poetry and also have experience in mural painting, commissions, collaborations with other artists, gallery management, exhibition curation, facilitating workshops, and mentoring and supporting new migrants and refugees who are also artists.

Nature, the landscape, and the interconnected interdependence of all life are a constant inspiration and continuing theme in my work.  When painting I work from photographs sketches and visual memories. I tend to work intuitively and through a process of working and reworking the canvas, painting layers scraping back, and using mixed media, my work evolves.

My sculptures have a figurative element and evolve from combining my own ceramics and found objects. Inspired by what it means to be human, many symbolize our connection with nature and each other.

In recent exhibitions I have also included some of my poetry alongside artworks, the poetry often comes through simultaneously as the artworks evolve or during reflection.

Through my art, my aim has always been to bring people closer to nature to appreciate and respect the colors shapes textures, and essence that it has to offer and invite the viewer on a journey to the deeper levels that connect us all.