Brooke Karath

Eight years ago, I had a dream that one day I would have a quaint log cabin on a mesa surrounded by beautiful mountain vistas.  In that very same dream, I was a passionate artist, free to express myself and free to live life on my terms.  Last year, at the age of 52, I picked up a paint brush for one of the first times in my life.  Within weeks, not only was I sitting in my one-room cabin and art studio, but several of my paintings were on display in a small art gallery in Chimayo.  There’s a Swedish proverb that goes something like this: “Those who wish to sing, always find a song.”  Not only had I found my song, but I found my voice as well.

I’ve always been drawn to the beauty and spirit of northern New Mexico.  I’m inspired by its rich regional heritage, majestic landscapes, vivid colors, and hypnotic night skies.  I’m also inspired by its people, their passion, their artistry and creativity.  My mission has been to embrace and appreciate that artistry to the best of my ability. 

One phase in my mission this past year was enrolling in a Retablo painting class.  While I never did quite learn how to paint saints, I was intrigued by the history, materials used, and the process of Retablo making.  I discovered that I love working with wood, so today, I utilize both crude and processed pine as my canvas.  I also use a combination of watercolor, acrylics, and charcoal.  Fortunately for me, all three mediums are so very versatile and forgiving! 

At this year’s Studio Tour, I will feature Native American portraits and several collaborative pieces with David Vargas, a master wood carver and furniture maker.