Karen Jeffrey

Several months ago, a series of unfortunate events happened. My landlord announced he was selling my home of 12 years, I began experiencing sharp pains from a pinched sciatic nerve, and I was rear-ended while driving. Needless to say, I've been quite stressed, feeling down and overwhelmed by finding a place to live. The sciatica pain runs all down my left leg and is excruciating and relentless, making it difficult to move, sit, or drive. Getting to my studio to paint has been a challenge, as the nerve pain consumes my thoughts and energy. It’s taken a real physical and mental toll on me.

Despite these challenges, when I can manage to get to my Studio, painting has been my sanctuary, it’s kept me sane, helping me cope with the looming eviction and reflecting from the pain.

These months have also given me a chance to reflex on how I wish to paint my next series. I looked at all my series of works. Thought about what I enjoyed about painting each one, and which paintings and series brought me the most joy. Which one felt the most intuitive and embodied emotion and energy.

 I found myself going back to the beginning. This new series embodies the love I discovered through scratching, scraping, sanding, paint gestures, and mark making...

Ontario College of Art & Design University, OCADU |  
Communication and Design