SN08201619 & Perennial: Karen Griffin + Payton Koranek 

ARTIST STATEMENTS -

Karen E. Griffin:

Karen E. Griffin (KE) creates striking two-dimensional portraits that aim to empower viewers to embrace their unique identities as well as African based abstractions depicting cultural and community narratives. She fuses high fashion with vibrant storytelling of African American heritage. Inspired by her connection to the diaspora, Karen uses African prints to meticulously render each image, capturing the intricate details of the fabric and the bold energy of the patterns. Her work celebrates the enduring influence of African textiles on contemporary style, inviting viewers to explore the rich cultural narratives woven into every thread. Karen’s work celebrates the rich tapestry of African American culture through the exploration of prints, patterns, and symbols. By incorporating these elements, she aims to create pieces that resonate deeply with the African American community and offer a connection to our ancestral heritage. “While we may never fully comprehend the lives of our ancestors, we carry their legacy within us through our fashion, food, culture, dances, and music.” Her art serves as visual expression of this enduring connection.

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Payton Koranek:

My ceramic work is deeply rooted in the natural world. It’s an exploration of nature's profound influence on our lives — a connection that provides solace and grounding. In my ceramic practice, I seek to create a visual narrative that reflects these themes: the idea of a "safe space" where we can reconnect with both ourselves and the earth. Whether I am sculpting a figure or shaping a vessel, I aim to weave organic forms, minimal color palettes and soft textures to mimic nature. Each piece is an exploration of this delicate balance—between form and function, the body and the environment. It is an invitation to slow down and to honor the profound interplay between nature and the human experience. 

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