Featured Artist 

Karen Farestad

My path to becoming a watercolor artist is really not typical. I did not go through life with a pencil or paintbrush in my hand but envied those who did! I never took art classes in junior high, high school or college. I saw myself as an appreciator of fine art, enjoying and exploring art museums and galleries. My passion however, was directed to helping at-risk kids and families. I cared deeply about literacy, supporting children born into poverty and single parents who were struggling to meet their children’s basic needs. At an early age I raised funds for needy families and read books to immigrant children. This passion ultimately led me to pursue a Ph.D. in Sociology and then to lead agencies with Head Start programs, youth advocacy and family services offered in low-income neighborhoods. Ultimately, I was able to work with agencies and organizations all across the United States to review policies, develop model programs, conduct trainings and study data related to child abuse and neglect. It was my blessing to pursue this passion...