Visiting Artist Karen Willenbrink-Johnsen

Glass is my way of life, my passion, and my soul's purpose.

"I am a lifelong learner and a student of nature, and I consider it an honor and great responsibility to reflect the natural world in my art." - Karen Willenbrink-Johnsen

Karen began working in the 1980s in Ohio and has gone on to global acclaim. Her work is deeply influenced by the natural world, and her love of flora and fauna. Her objects can be representational, humorous, and narrative, but are always rooted in a spiritual reciprocal relationship between herself and the living world. She is internationally recognized as one of the top glass sculptors and is credited with developing many of the tools and skills glassmakers use today when working figuratively. The Glass Program is thrilled to welcome Karen during the Centennial Celebrations at AUArts.