Where ART Lives Magazine Volume 3 Number 4 | Page 62

Karen Sako
How often do you paint? How many hours a week?
I paint, draw or sketch something everyday. I teach 4 days a week so I am always doing a demo
or experimenting with new techniques.
How would you like to be remembered?
I would like to be remembered as an artist that taught people how to love art, be creative and
inspire them to follow their inner voice. It is important to me to lead by example and share what
I have learned and experienced to facilitate their soulful creative journey where nothing is too
bizarre or safe.
How do you know when a painting is finished?
I ask myself if I have incorporated basic design principles. There has to be contrast between
colors, textures, marks and a clear focal point. If I start tweaking too much I know it’s just time to
stop.
Do you have a favorite painting that you have collected by another artist?
An oil + cold wax medium painting by Mark Russell called Darkening Skies.
What is the most inspirational place you have visited to date?
Mont Saint Michel in France was by far the most inspirational place I have visited. I felt like I had
been transported back in time where monks gilded ancient manuscripts that I was
obsessed with at the Louvre. I am in love with any art that has typography.
Where would you take your dream vacation?
I would go back to Austria in a heartbeat. Out of all the places I have been in Europe, that was
by far my favorite place. If I ever get the opportunity to go back my plan would be to do a lot of
abstract plein air painting.
Tell us something that few people know about you.
At 21 years old I discovered I had a brain tumor. I was told that I would likely not be able to leave
the hospital and certainly would never drive a car again. I was not going to accept that fate and
proved them wrong. It’s that experience that exposed my positive attitude that made me a sur-
vivor. It taught me that life is short and drives me to do what I love while pushing myself to raise
the bar.
Any other thoughts to share?
I encourage everyone to experiment and not be afraid of making mistakes. Not every painting is
going to be a winner and maybe one you are not so excited about just might be.
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