Karen Lauseng, is an internationally recognized New Mexico artist residing in
Silver City. Karen grew up in Watertown, SD where she says she "developed a
strong work ethic and great appreciation for mild weather." Karen's mother was
an expert seamstress who taught her to knit, sew, crochet, and embroider.
With little money to spare in a family of 7, Lauseng learned at an early age the
art of being thrifty. During her childhood, she developed the qualities of a
true pack rat, and is very proud of the bargains she finds at local garage sales,
flea markets, thrift stores, etc. Karen's current work demonstrates her flair
for seeing the beauty in common household items.
Lauseng's work has been showcased in numerous international publications
by Lark Books. Magazines featuring her work include: Lapidary Journal-Jewelry
Artist; Art Jewelry; The Crafts Report; and Creative Home Arts.
Silver City. Karen grew up in Watertown, SD where she says she "developed a
strong work ethic and great appreciation for mild weather." Karen's mother was
an expert seamstress who taught her to knit, sew, crochet, and embroider.
With little money to spare in a family of 7, Lauseng learned at an early age the
art of being thrifty. During her childhood, she developed the qualities of a
true pack rat, and is very proud of the bargains she finds at local garage sales,
flea markets, thrift stores, etc. Karen's current work demonstrates her flair
for seeing the beauty in common household items.
Lauseng's work has been showcased in numerous international publications
by Lark Books. Magazines featuring her work include: Lapidary Journal-Jewelry
Artist; Art Jewelry; The Crafts Report; and Creative Home Arts.
Education has played a significant role in Lauseng's life. She received her degrees from Kansas State
University which include:
Karen studied studio art with over fifteen distinguished artists including Elliott Pujol, Heikki Seppa, Chuck
Evans, Helen Shirk, Thomas Mann, Marjorie Schick, Deb Stoner, Kate Wagle, Christine Clark and Nelda Getty.
Lauseng has taught: Three Dimensional Design, Two Dimensional Design, Art Appreciation, Metalsmithing and
Jewelry Making and Art for Elementary Education (Art Methods) at the college level.
University which include:
Karen studied studio art with over fifteen distinguished artists including Elliott Pujol, Heikki Seppa, Chuck
Evans, Helen Shirk, Thomas Mann, Marjorie Schick, Deb Stoner, Kate Wagle, Christine Clark and Nelda Getty.
Lauseng has taught: Three Dimensional Design, Two Dimensional Design, Art Appreciation, Metalsmithing and
Jewelry Making and Art for Elementary Education (Art Methods) at the college level.
Artist Statement:
Design to me is an adventure. I find the beauty of the craft in its individuality. When designing a piece, I begin with
an idea and allow the materials to dictate the end result. Each piece evolves during the working process and
records my personal experiences.
Inspiration for my work is drawn from travel, nature, spiritual readings, and daily life. My current work focuses on
the beauty found in common household items. Materials such as paper clips, bobby pins, toothpicks, cotton swabs,
soda straws, cookie cutters, or sewing snaps, have been used to fashion jewelry that is functional and fun to wear.
Jewelry made from orange juice caps, fishing swivels, ear-plugs, tin foil, and plastic garbage bags will be coming
soon. Check out the JUST FOR FUN section in THE Gallery for some examples.
Design to me is an adventure. I find the beauty of the craft in its individuality. When designing a piece, I begin with
an idea and allow the materials to dictate the end result. Each piece evolves during the working process and
records my personal experiences.
Inspiration for my work is drawn from travel, nature, spiritual readings, and daily life. My current work focuses on
the beauty found in common household items. Materials such as paper clips, bobby pins, toothpicks, cotton swabs,
soda straws, cookie cutters, or sewing snaps, have been used to fashion jewelry that is functional and fun to wear.
Jewelry made from orange juice caps, fishing swivels, ear-plugs, tin foil, and plastic garbage bags will be coming
soon. Check out the JUST FOR FUN section in THE Gallery for some examples.
Exhibitions of her work have been extensive, including solo exhibitions, juried regional and national venues,
faculty and group exhibitions and galleries.
faculty and group exhibitions and galleries.
MFA
BFA
BS
BFA
BS
Metalsmithing and Jewelry
Metalsmithing and Jewelry
Economics
Metalsmithing and Jewelry
Economics
©2012 KJ artworks All Rights Reserved