“I met Karen Light through a friend of a friend. It was definitely Kismet! She has illustrated 2 books of my series so far. Karen listened to my vision and tapped into my characters. Her process of getting to know the writer works so well. It’s perfect. Karen is so easy to work with. She’s talented, personable, professional and knowledgeable. I’m happy that we were able to collaborate. I look forward to the next several books. ”
My Vision as an Illustrator: To partner with authors to nurture humanity through the magic of story-creating and story-telling. I believe that stories connect us as humans, forge understanding, evoke empathy, and challenge us to think of ways to create a world in which all living creatures can thrive. I believe both stories and art allow us to speak/feel heart-to-heart first and then we can enlist our minds to be in service of what is being shared.
My Vision as a Creative Coach: I help struggling artists who want to make a soulful living. So many artists never put themselves out there. They never feed their soul because they are afraid they will starve their bank accounts. My passion is to help them find their unique creative voice and learn the confidence and tools that they need to express it. I show them how the business of getting out there and getting paid can be as creative as making their art. Then, they can proudly and profitably share their magic that the world so desperately needs.
My Creative Dream: To be a part of a thriving community of creative dreamers that inspire me and support me and who I inspire and support. I dream of writing and creating the artwork for many of my own stories and playing with the forms in which I can share my stories. I love the idea of making mixed-media story installations that are a full-body experience in and of themselves, but that also are a space for connective shared experiences.
My Background: I have a BFA from Xavier University where I majored in sculpture. I was a mixed media painter for years. Then, I illustrated my first book and found so much joy in the process. Many years and books later, I see no end in sight!
I also have an MA in Cultural Management where I focused on organizations using arts for social change and a Life Coaching Certification. For two decades, I have taught and coached people of all ages. My passions of creating and working with people are inextricably connected.
Fun Stuff About Me: In my spare time I can be found hiking, swing dancing, obsessing over tiny houses, and reading Sufi poetry. Doodling is a spiritual practice for me!