Artist Karen Bates was born in the United States of America in North Carolina, and raised in New York. She now works and lives in New York City as a full time freelance artist with her 4 children, husband and cat. Karen holds a cum laude Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Maryland Institute College of Art with a multiple major in Illustration and Fine Art. She has more than 10 years of experience as a silkscreen print artist she got this experience while working for the New York Garment center. She also does illustration and art for many other projects, including gift bags, stationery, tech accessories, greeting cards, packaging, giftware, children's books, magazine & brochure covers, art posters and prints and spot illustration. She has been doing fiber art for almost 30 years.
During that time she has also produced 4 wonderful children, more quilts than she can count and five books — while assiduously avoiding anything having to do with the kitchen. Her dedication has led her to ambitious career opportunities that have seen her work winning awards. After many years of hard work she now directs her artistic energies back into her childhood passion of decorating surfaces. She currently boasts an abundant array of independent illustration projects. When she's not working on her artwork, she can be found reading. With a love for people and creativity, she directs her aims and gifts to uplift, bless others and spread joy. Some of her clients and licensees include some of the leading companies in the U.S. In many cases they purchase her art for inspirational purposes.
