Using the skills and sensibilities she developed
through her background in architecture, artist Karen Pasieka has revitalized a
beloved childhood pastime, and found her creative outlet in polymer clay sculpting. Her passion for detailed work is expressed
through her miniatures: delicately sculpted floral jewellery, ornaments and
figurines, and most recently her framed artwork.
“I find myself continuously inspired by colour,
whether from nature, fashion, or the new combinations that call out to me from
my stores of clay. I’m captivated by the
contrasts between the singular, finely shaped flower, and the much bolder looks
that result from the power of multiples.” - Karen Pasieka
Where were you born?
Richmond
Hill, born at York Central Hospital. Lived here at my house (that my
husband and I purchased from my parents) from the day I was born!
If you could have an art related vacation anywhere in the
world where would you go and why?
Europe.
I lived in Nice France for 4 months for a study abroad program when I
was studying architecture at the University of Toronto. Some of my
favorite places were Venice, Rome, & Prague. I'd love to revisit
some of those favorites with my husband Peter, as well as catch some of
the places I missed the first time. I loved the lifestyle and being in
places so rich in history and architecture.
What’s your favourite thing to create and why?
My framed art pieces because, unlike my jewellery or ornaments, the subject matter is so free, I can go anywhere with them!
How did you get your start in the world of art?
I
have a B.Arch, but have always been artistic. I think in my heart I
have always needed a more free creative outlet...I believe I've found
that in my work with polymer clay.
Do you have go-to paints/colors that you love to use in
your art work?
I have one that I blend that I like to call ochre-orange, but greens I think will always be my favorite.
Who has been your biggest inspiration as an artist?
So
tough to say. Since high school I have always adored DaVinci and
Jacques-Louis David (specifically The Death of Marat). I had the
opportunity to see Adoration of the Magi at the Uffizi in Florence...I
sat in front of it for probably close to an hour. I think it's the fact
that it's incomplete, it's the promise of what it could be that I find
so intriguing. I love the sharp contrasts, the shadows that are so
brooding, so deep with meaning, which is kind of ironic because my own
work is nothing like that...most being quite lighthearted and whimsical.
What have been some of your crowning achievements?
One of my necklaces was worn by Lisa LaFlamme during her coverage of the 2010 Summer Olympics, that was pretty exciting!
If you could have three wishes as an artist, what would
they be?
1. To live, really live, off
the revenue from my art, though I think that's every artists dream, if
they don't already live it!
2. To create a new studio for work,
teaching, and display. I'm currently working out of my basement that
was finished by my dad...nostalgic, but not very conducive to
productivity or inspiring.
3. To have the time to work uninterrupted, in peace and quiet. As a
parent of two little children (right now 34 months & 14 months),
this is a fervent desire! I will have to wait until they are a little
older I guess, but I so long for a time when I can let my creative
juices flow.
What is the best advice that you have received as an
artist?
Selling your art is a business.
What colour best describes your personality?
Green. It can be cheerful, calm, serene...quiet.
