Karen Daly - Artist / Tutor

Biography

As a child I drew little pictures all the time, carefully observing each subject.
I began to experiment with pen and ink in college. Drawing fine detail with tiny dots, taking hours to finish small sections of a picture with carefully observed realism. This helped me to see and appreciate not only detail, but even small variations in light and tone. Colour grabbed my attention much later, I began to work with oils and watercolour as I raised my family, seeking to express an emotion or atmosphere that I felt belonged to the subject.

Nature has always been a primary influence in my art. I find I am constantly drawn to natural shapes and forms, and the way light shines through them, illuminating what is deeper within. I feel a strong link to my environment, to the land, to the plants and trees, which hold a special fascination for me.

I would describe my paintings as "abstract-realism", with elements of what is observed, along with an appreciation of their mood, atmosphere and character.
I aim for a soul quality in my pictures, shown especially as areas of light.
My initial impressions play a key role in my approach to the painting, setting the mood. For some pictures I include a verse I have written, inspired by my own personal response to the subject. This I use to enhance the subject, and add another dimension of communication between myself and the viewer.

My techniques for both oils and watercolour involve glazing transparent layers, usually of pure colour. This allows parts of the underlying colours, light and imagery to show through.
I aim for a transient feel, imitating nature as she constantly changes and adapts, reacting to the seasons, light and shadow throughout the day all around us.
The end result is pictures that the viewer can look deeper into, through multiple layers, and discover more from each time. Through this I hope to impart a feeling of mystery along with discovery for the viewer. And hopefully convey a sense of our own ongoing link between what is natural and spiritual in ourselves, and within our environment.

Currently I work teaching private workshops along with art classes for adults through Horowhenua College ACE Adult Education programme in my home town of Levin.

Select the topics below to view my work:

Oil Paintings

A Healing Journey

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