We recently had the chance to connect with Karen Israel and have shared our conversation below.
Karen, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
My schedule is fairly unpredictable. Each day, I hope to be at my easel but there are necessary distractions and obligations, all part of being an artist. These include volunteering on art society boards,teaching pastel (adults)at various art organizatons (which I love), framing and photographing my work, cleaning my studio and taking stock of my inventory for entering exhibits so that my work can be seen.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a Connecticut artist working primarily in pastel. My style is representational and I work mainly from my own photo references. I began art making in my 40’s. Some people consider this note worthy but I was always intrigued by art and grew up surrounded by people of similar inclinations.For several years, I studied at the Art Students League and also with local artists whose work I respected. I tend to focus on subjects that are similar until I feel it’s time to move on to the next. Most recently I have been interested in painting figures in a narrative setting. I exhibit and sell my art through juried shows, in galleries nationally and through my website. I am frequently asked to jury art exhibits and I teach at several art societies throughout New England and the NY metropolitan area.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
In my younger years, I wanted to get married and raise a family and I wouldn’t change any of that. While raising a family, I also juggled a demanding career as a licensed Physical Therapist.When I started my artistic journey, some of the people closest to me were not supportive so I found the needed resolve within myself. During this period I grappled with imposter syndrome and I had difficulty embracing my identity as an artist evidenced by my reluctance to sign my paintings with more than my first name. As my confidence grew and I began to garner awards and recognition,I fully and proudly embraced my identity as an artist.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self that the rewards of tenacity are not always immediate and perseverance is a difficult but indispensable quality.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closet friends would say my children and grandchildren are what matters most to me and they would be correct. But running parallel to that, I hope they would say it was undeniable that I had a deep commitment and passion to creating meaningful art.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope that my Collectors continue to enjoy the art that I have created and that my many students as well as my family derive satisfaction from my artistic legacy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.artbykarenisrael.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenisraelpastel/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenisrael/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karen.helfeldisrael
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
