Karen Lorena Parker Art Blog — BremerPark.com

Society Dubai, September Issue 2009

After arriving in Dubai a mere five months ago, Karen Lorena Parker is bursting with enthusiasm for her new-found home. The artist and graphic designer arrived with her husband and children and is ecstatic about the opportunities that are rapidly presenting themselves.
“There is just so much opportunity — it’s incredible,” says the mother of two.

Karen has clearly been keeping busy in the short time she’s been here; several Dubai galleries have already showcased her work. Her diverse style means she appeals to a variety of galleries. Her contemporary work being snapped up by ArtSource and Jam Jar, whilst the more romantic vintage-style pieces are available at antique haven Vindemia. Her artworks has been reproduced for the luxurious Tridents’ Bayside Residences in Dubai Marina and she recently exhibited in Wafi. She’s also hosting workshops at DUCTAC, Mall of Emirates. Her work will be at the Dubai Mall October 29th (across from the Burj Dubai) and upcoming Index Exhibition in November.

Dubai Mall at Burj Dubai

Karen is first and foremost and artist, although initially this was a cause for dismay for her parents, who hoped she would join the medical profession. The art she produces captures mood and feeling, creating a unique ambiance.

Shoreline

“My main interest is capturing the romantic light that comes through the trees or clouds, and that beautiful, random abstract pattern that’s familiar to all of us.” Karen muses.
Much of Karen’s art represents nature and in her work you’ll often find images of heavenly landscapes. “Because I paint from memory, it is the most ideal visual place that I’m bringing my mind to.” She continues: “The ideal shoreline, the ideal lighting conditions. I am a very optimistic person.”

While she may sound whimsical Karen focuses on creating moods, which has led her to work with interior designers and developers. Her background as a graphic artist also shaped the type of work she does; between exhibitions and workshops, Karen also uses her art to brand spaces for clientele.

Combining her two finely-homed skills, Karen superimposes her artwork into a room, allowing interior designers to see commissioned pieces in a site that may not even exist yet.

Since Karen is inspired by nature, one might imagine she would be hindered by Dubai’s artificial landscape, but she doesn’t agree.

“It’s so sunny here, so you can catch incredible lighting effects. It’s green, it’s luscious and a desert — it’s all these things.” Karen beams. “I sit at the beach and the light comes through the palm trees or it shows on the water. Even the lighting effects that are done with the water fountains are incredible. It’s even more inspiring here in one way. It’s like the beauty here is in the design of Dubai. It’s nature-inspired and so is my work.”

Morning Light Mosaic 40″x30″
Working in shimmery aqua palettes as the cool tones light up the sky.

I am working on a show for June 13th in Silicon Oasis. Not something I could have put together — unless I happened to meet a friend from my Calgary elementary school, Junior High and Sr High… Incredibly enough I did! Playing ultimate at Safa Park with some Canadian friends.

I meet her children, and she invites me to her parties. She has lived in Dubai for four years and has connected with so many people. We laugh at how incredibly bonded you can feel to another Canadian, instantly out here. One of her friends says, “Even Americans! You just want to hug them because they’re North American!”

It is amazing how every day you are exposed to different ideas, people, values, education levels and understandings. I hear people complaining about how things are built and torn down here. But i compare to Vancouver where it takes 4 years to do a study on building a bridge. I’d rather spend the 4 million on building and revising and getting it done, than paying for studies.

I have found a supplier of canvasses and have been painting at the Jam Jar close by in the Al Quoz area. A open studio / warehouse concept where kids and adults can paint. A lady comments on my work in progress and how she loves the thought of cooler weather. How it reminds her of home. I am glad to find my work resonates out here.

I also met a wonderful artist Marina Harris who has been another instant best friend. I will be joining her as an art instructor at DUCTAC. (The arts center in the Mall of Emirates). A talented artist and someone who has been helpful in introducing me to the art scene here in Dubai. I hope she will join me in the exhibit on the 13th. A painting from her boat series. Greek Artist Marina Harris Boat Collection.