What I love most about writing my blog is meeting people and listening to their stories. Each time I interview a talented individual, I dive into their world, which is priceless. It’s always a unique and intriguing experience. I am endlessly grateful for these moments and look forward to creating more authentic content for you, my readers.
Karen deLeon Stuart was introduced to me by her husband, Jon, my mentor and a genuinely wonderful person—and Karen is no different. Her journey as an artist began early, with childhood days spent sketching horses and experimenting with faces, discovering she had a natural ability to capture a likeness.
Supported by her parents, particularly her father, who had a deep appreciation for art, Karen received private art lessons while she was in middle school. This early encouragement laid the foundation for her creative journey, leading her to study art at Stephens College in Columbia, MO. Though the curriculum didn't focus heavily on art fundamentals, Karen's passion for painting persevered.
After college, Karen's artistic path unexpectedly changed when she married her first husband, a Navy jet pilot. She began receiving commissions to paint military aircraft, though she quickly realized her true passion lay in capturing the beauty of the skies rather than the planes themselves. Moving to Virginia Beach, she shifted her focus to portraiture, which became a significant part of her career. A neighbor who was launching an internet business even built Karen a website, which, at the time, was a rare and valuable tool for gaining commissions.
In 2005, Karen and Jon relocated to Bradenton, Florida, where Karen's artistic journey took another turn. Surrounded by Florida's vibrant colors and natural beauty, she found herself increasingly drawn to landscapes, particularly those featuring water and the dynamic skies of the region. Despite this new focus, her love for portraiture remained strong, and she continued to hone her skills.
Karen's work is regularly exhibited at the Artists' Guild Gallery on Holmes Beach, where she has been a member for about 15 years. This gallery provides a consistent space for her to display her art and connect with others who appreciate her work. In addition to the Artists' Guild Gallery, Karen's paintings are often featured at Art Center Sarasota and ArtCenter Manatee whenever exhibition opportunities arise.
Her creative process is deeply personal. She often starts with photographs taken during her travels or everyday explorations. These images might sit in her archives for years before the inspiration strikes to turn them into paintings. This method allows Karen to infuse her work with a sense of time and reflection, capturing moments that resonate deeply with her and, in turn, with those who view her art.
Though Karen no longer actively seeks commissions, she remains open to them when they align with her interests. Her focus is creating work that brings joy and beauty to those who see it, avoiding darker themes in favor of uplifting, positive imagery. Whether she's painting children on the beach, a serene landscape, or a carefully composed portrait, Karen's goal is to evoke happiness and preserve the beauty of a fleeting moment.
Karen's dedication to her craft is evident in her approach to painting. She often works in the afternoons, finding that time of day most conducive to her creativity. Some paintings come together in a matter of days, while others may take years to reach completion as she waits for the perfect moment to continue or finish a piece.
She prefers using oil paints, particularly those made with walnut oil, instead of linseed oil, which is more suitable for indoor work due to their lack of strong odors. This attention to detail and care for her environment are another example of Karen's thoughtful approach to her art. Karen deLeon Stuart’s art captures vibrant landscapes, tender portraits, and serene beach scenes, inviting the viewer into tranquility and joy.
You can explore Karen's work further at the Artists' Guild Gallery on Holmes Beach or through her website, which, though not frequently updated, serves as a digital archive of her artistic journey.
Photos: iruphotos.com
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