Karolyn has enjoyed painting, winning awards and selling her art since an early age. Her first formal art teacher was Frederick Kiefendorf, prof of art at MO State University, who urged her to go to Art School after seeing her work in his classes. However, family members encouraged her to get a more traditional education but to study art as an avocation. Therefore, she stayed in MO and completed an undergraduate degree in Education with emphasis in art and science (cum laude graduate). She continued to paint part time during her career as a teacher and administrator in Maryland, in the greater Kansas City area, and in Arkansas. She holds a Masters and an Educational Specialist degree from the U of AR, with work towards a doctorate in Fabric design from MO U, Columbia. She has studied with internationally known artists throughout parts of Europe and the USA. Traveling, visiting and volunteering in great art museums has enriched her life. She appreciates the artists she has been able to hire when directing the Fayetteville Schools adult and community ed program. She is a charter member of Artists of NWAR, (signature member), signature member of National Oil and Acrylic Painting Society and board member, Portrait Society of America, Plein Air Painters of the Ozarks, the Pastel Society and others. She has enjoyed sharing her art with nonprofits of whom she has worked with. She has won numerous awards and has collectors of her art across the USA. She appreciates Mr. Kiefendorf for his gifted instruction and encouragement to follow her passion. She continues to appreciate other instructors, such as A. Handell, D. Lefel, S. McGraw, etc. She enjoys painting the beautiful areas with other artists.