Born in Winnipeg, Karen graduated with a BFA Honours degree in 1993. After graduation, she received a professional development award from CIDA(Canadian International Development Agency) to teach pottery in Anguilla, B.W.I. for six months.
Following her experience in Anguilla, she continued to teach Art and exhibit her artwork in Manitoba. The mermaid has been a significant image in her work for many years, as it holds an important place in the myths and legends of many different cultures.
She works primarily with porcelain clay which is hand thrown on the pottery wheel and often decorated with carving or low relief sculpture. Her work is fired in a gas kiln following the glaze application.