Karen Gray

Karen Gray is an artist whose favourite subjects are often animal-based, transforming these creatures into characters that symbolize the struggles and experiences of life’s journey.

In 1995, she discovered her passion for clay, which felt like a “coming home” moment. This led to nine years as a ceramic sculptor in the rainforests of Bellingen, where she focused on hand-building and storytelling through her pieces. After painting scenes on vessels, she expanded into acrylic painting, complementing her ceramic work with a different yet harmonious approach.

Karen’s art is both whimsical and humorous, capturing an authentic voice through speed and instinct. Her bold brush strokes and strong clay techniques bring her characters to life, illustrating the balance of strength and fragility in existence.

With a diverse background that includes six years as an Illustrator Reprographic in the army and experience as a jewellery designer, Karen also holds an honours degree in Anthropology, fuelling her curiosity about the human condition and storytelling.

Now residing in the creative town of Yackandandah, she finds her greatest inspiration in her art studio, where she engages in imaginative conversations with her characters.