June 2008 Featured Artist
Karen Budan
 Are you married? Do you have children?
Bob and I have been married for 34 years (in August). I have two stepsons and three grandchildren (two grandsons and one granddaughter. Bob Jr. and his family live in Tacoma, WA and Chris and his family live in San Jose, CA.
Native of AZ? If not where you relocated from and how long ago?
I retired after 30 years in education in Michigan having served as everything from teacher to superintendent of schools. We moved to Scottsdale in 2001 and can’t imagine living anywhere else!
How long have you been involved with APAA?
I joined APAA about 2005 or so but rarely made the meetings until the last year. In December I retired once again. Since 2004, I had been working as the National Director for Professional Development for a software company that required extensive travel. It helped when the meetings moved to the current location and changed to Sundays….but still I was often on my way to the east coast on Sundays. I actually heard about APAA from Kelley Smith when I bought a pastel piece from her during a Hidden in the Hills.
 In what capacities have you served APAA?
I have been doing the newsletter since last October.
What formal art education, if any, do you have?
I have no formal art education. Both my masters and doctoral degree were in curriculum and instruction.
What informal art education, workshops, etc. have you taken part in that have impacted your art?
I have always loved art. Over the years I have taken adult ed courses in drawing and acrylics. I have also taken watercolor and pastel lessons in a private art instruction studio in Michigan. In addition, I have taken workshops at the American Equine Art Academy at the Kentucky Horse Park. One of our considerations for moving to Scottsdale were the art opportunities. I have taken classes with Sally Strand and Susan Ogilvie at the Scottsdale School for Art. In addition I have taken classes with Liz Kenyon through Brio and continue to take classes with Sue Hunter through PVCC.
 Do you work in other media…or just pastel?
I tried watercolor and acrylics ...but once I tried pastels I was hooked!!!
Are you a full time artist? If not are you still working? If so, what do you do?
No….I still work two days a week for the educational software company (but no travel). However, I am working very hard in my remaining time to become a better pastelist!!
Are you a member of other art organizations as well?
Yes, I am a juried member of the Arizona Art Alliance. In addition I am a member of the Sonoran Arts League
What are your goals for your art…a career, second career, enjoyment or hobby, become rich and famous, etc.
I do not want to make art another full time career….however, I would like to sell enough to support my addiction to pastels! My main overall goal is to become the best artist I can be and enjoy every minute of the journey! My goals for this year were to win a ribbon in a show and to sell a piece. I met the goal of a ribbon at the recent AAA show. Luckily, I have a few months left to make a sale.
Why have you chosen pastels as a medium?
The vibrant color first of all...wow! It is also a very tactile experience...up close and personal…. which I really enjoy. I also find it to be a very forgiving medium.
Do you work in themes or series? If not…do you have favorite topics?
I LOVE plein air! I love being outside in nature...especially with fellow artists! I am drawn to landscapes….but also enjoy a focus on our beautiful Sonoran Desert cacti.
Are you represented by any galleries?
No, I am an emerging artist...perhaps at some point in my future!
Any experiences, awards, etc. that have been boosts for your career?
I loved getting juried into the AAA and our shows, and winning the ribbon…...but at this point, I would have to say it has been getting to know all the pastel artists in APAA and learning from all of you. The generously shared knowledge of practicing artists has been so valuable to my learning and growth as an artist!
Anything else that you would like to share about yourself?
I am really excited about the growing presence of APAA and the chance to be a part of it! I envision great things in our future!!
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