Karen Barry promised herself that when she retired she would pursue her dream of studying art, oil painting in particular. After twenty-four years in the US Secret Service, she kept that promise, taking instruction with Angie Campbell of the Campbell studios here in La Grange. In 2003 she furthered her artistic education taking a workshop with well-known colored pencil artist, Vera Curanow.

Karen has developed a style all her own incorporating her love of nature. She often uses her own animals and horses as inspiration for her paintings and drawings. Her continued part time work for the Secret Service and other security companies provides the opportunity to travel worldwide collecting inspiration with her always-ready camera for transfer to the canvas upon her return home.

Karen accepts commissions in her specialty: equine and pet portraiture.