Karen Michaels is a multifaceted artist, with a passion for photography that stems from her diverse background in environmental science and psychology.
Background and Journey
In her early career, Karen received a National Science Foundation grant to study environmental science and holds a degree in Geoenvironmental Science along with a Master's in Counseling Psychology. Her insights into human emotion and nature significantly influence her photographic works.
After experiencing a traumatic brain injury in 1990, Karen turned to photography as a form of rehabilitation, allowing her to convey her perspective of the world through colors and shapes.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout her artistic journey, Karen has received numerous accolades. Notably, her work has been featured in various exhibitions and publications:
2002: Published an original piece in The Advocate.
2006: Exhibited at the Open Door Gallery in Florida.
Four-year traveling exhibit with the Great Explorations Children's Museum in St. Petersburg, FL.
2011-2019: Earned 10 nominations for Merit of Excellence in The Spider Awards.
2024: Five of her photographs on permanent display at Jefferson University’s Neuroscience, Honickman Center.
Philosophy and Invitation
As a photographer, Karen believes in capturing the essence of moments that often go unnoticed. "With sound-canceling earbuds and my camera in hand, I navigate the world," she shares. Each image becomes a piece of art that resonates profoundly with her audience.
She invites you to explore her selected works and hopes that through her photography, you can experience the beauty of the world through her lens.