Karen Waln, Ceramic Artist

Karen’s current work employs the use of various decorative methods to add color and

texture to her ceramic pieces. Having studied in the field of biology and botany she

tries to emulate nature in each of her pieces. Functionality is a big part of what she

produces, creating pieces that can be utilized in her home and yard. When she does

stray from functionality it is to create ceramic flowers to adorn walls and cactus to

place in the yard.

Retiring from a career in water resources planning in 2015 Karen began courses

the next month in ceramics at Ventura College in 2016. Her work is primarily

functional ware employing either the surface decoration using a variety of colored

slip application methods and transfers. Her work incorporates both hand-built

and throwing techniques to make each piece unique. The inspiration for her pieces comes

from her love of nature.