Daily Inspiration: Meet Karen Schifman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Schifman.

Hi Karen, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am an art historian. I had my own interior design business and then decided to continue my education obtaining a Masters Degree in art historian. This led to becoming a lecturer at CSU Northridge. My focus was on women artists. I taught at CSUN and various other higher institutions for over 20 years. I then started dabbling in collage over the past few years and upon retirement from the University, I have focused solely on my art practice. Now I am a dedicated mixed-media artist. I have exhibited in many local group exhibitions and have currently moved to Northern San Diego County where I am integrating into the art scene here.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I have been very fortunate to have some amazing mentors who guided me in my career as an art historian. I worked hard, was very conscientious and extremely dedicated to my teaching and research.
As a fine artist, the struggle is always there. I feel challenged to work on a large scale.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Having an art history background is an advantage as my data base is vast. I also have a penchant for vintage materials and incorporate many into my mixed media pieces. There is a focus on the past in my work, often using vintage photos and lace which is becoming a bit of a trademark.
I am proud to exhibit my work along side many accomplished artists.
I also write a monthly column about women artists exhibiting in So. California. The title is Artful Amphora” Women Around Town and my website is https://artfulamphorastudio.com/

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I am a second generation Angeleno. I love L.A. and I love the history and architecture. My favorite building is Bullock’s Wilshire (now Southwestern Law School) on Wilshire. I love the original “Farmer’s Market” and have been going there since I was a child. Of course I despise the traffic and how difficult it is to get downtown from the westside. My husband and I have recently moved to Carlsbad, CA to be closer to family, but L.A. will always be home.

Since you are not specific here, I wrote about L.A.

Likes in art: Rothko, Bourgeois, Ingres, Betye Saar…..

Dislikes: dishonesty, ignorance, shiny things…

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.artfulamphorastudio.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenschifman