Born in Smithers, B.C., Karen lived in various places in Canada and the U.S. She graduated from the University of Waterloo and Queen's with a focus in environmental education, and a minor in fine art. A major influence during university years was professor/artist Tony Urquhart.

Karen's interests led her to work outdoors with various environmental educational organizations; art consignments were mostly of an illustrative nature and woven into her work. While working for Alberta Parks, Karen Married Dale, a ranger and moved to the Crowsnest Pass in 1985.

Painting took a serious turn after taking part time studies at the Emily Carr College of Art and Design where she was inspired by Vancouver artist Nora Blanche. Karen’s imagery comes from the unfolding story she lives and, as a result, her work has a narrative quality making liberal use of visual metaphors. Karen enjoys kick-starting the creative process in others and doing workshops geared especially toward the artist-in-denial. She now divides her time between teaching high school fine arts, working in her studio, and raising 3 amazing daughters.