Meet Karen Chatham, an artist whose passion for creativity is a way of life. As a Moab based artist, she continues to evolve her art while drawing energy from the creative community around her.

Karen, it is so great to connect and hear more about your creative life. Let’s dive in. I’d love to know what has shaped your creative world and why Moab is so special for you?

Over the years, I've developed a diverse range of creative interests, including photography and painting in different mediums, and more recently, pottery, which I started learning about 5 years ago and have continued to pursue. Moab is a special place with a multitude of creative people.

 

Give us a little snippet or memory from the beginning of your creative life. What was that initial spark that made you realize this was a part of who you are?

 

My early years were marked by a fascinating discovery: my brain was wired to perceive the world in a distinct way. I'd gaze at everyday things and see a kaleidoscope of colors, shapes, and shadows. It was only natural to assume everyone experienced the world in the same vivid way. It surprised me that most people don’t! Growing up, I was fortunate to have a supportive family that nurtured my creativity, allowing me to express myself freely.

How has curiosity shaped your growth as an artist?

I haven't received a formal art education, but my curiosity has driven me to take classes in different subjects, allowing me to discover new passions. Never stop pursuing the dream.

Do you ever wish your creative journey had unfolded differently, or are you happy with the path you’ve taken?

 

No, What’s done is done, look ahead!

 

 

How do you balance your constant flow of creative ideas with the demands of everyday life?

My creativity manages me. My brain is always buzzing with creative ideas, but it's the distractions from daily life that I wish I could escape from.

 

Do you feel that both creativity and marketing can dwell together in balance?

 

Art and marketing are two different mindsets, and most artists aren't naturally inclined towards both.

 

How do you approach rest and inspiration as part of your creative process?

 

I really don’t take breaks or want to. To truly thrive as an artist, you need to be around people who inspire and motivate you. Negative influences can stifle your creativity, so it's crucial to avoid them and focus on nurturing relationships that uplift and support you. Being around other creative people will bring new ideas and new inspiration. A good example is Disney’s Imagineers. An incredible group of creative people who bounce ideas around and create amazing things!

 

 

We’d love to hear how you're handling the political climate and the threat to public lands. 

 

Politics can be overwhelming and toxic, making it tough to stay creative.

 

Where do you go—or what do you seek out—when you’re looking for fresh inspiration?

 

I like to go and see other artists' works. Santa Fe is one of my favorite places to go.

 

 

What aspects of your creative process or style do you feel make your work uniquely yours?

 

By choosing to hand-build my pottery instead of using a wheel, I'm able to tap into my creativity and craft truly unique items that reflect my personal style.

 

What drives you to keep creating, and how do you hope people experience your work?

I find that my constant stream of creative thoughts is a powerful motivator for making art. While I don't intentionally try to connect with my audience, I do hope that they appreciate my work and have a favorable reaction to it.

 

 

Karen, thank you for sharing your perspective on creativity and how it feels like a way of life for you. Your ability to see and harness that energy to create such beautiful art is so unique. We love seeing all the new beautiful pieces you bring in and look forward to what you create in the future! 

To see more of Karen’s work or connect with her, visit her website at studiokmoab.com