Karen Walter

My plein air drawings capture the immediacy and unique energy that comes from working outside in that place, on that day, in that moment. The tools are sumi ink and Japanese paper and brushes; traditional Asian materials used in a non-traditional way. The challenge is working en plein air creating large scale drawings with spontaneous looking gestural marks, a skill which has been years in the making. Born from the failures, the Folded Drawing Series reflects the quieter, more contemplative atmosphere of the studio. Layers of ink are laid down on top of the existing drawing. Folding and unfolding occurs until something visually interesting happens. Colored pencils are used to bring out and balance the image.

Both bodies of work are related to and reflect the original landscape of water, rocks, and sunshine, and all are part of the creative process which brings me such joy.