Swan Song - Pumpkin Woman (detail)

Karin Krohne Kaufman, born and raised in Milwaukee, WI, developed a deep passion for art at an early age. Her artistic journey began at four, when she would draw whenever she could, captivated by children's book illustrations, particularly their vivid colors and lively subjects. Throughout the 1970s, Kaufman pursued independent studies in illustration, eventually developing her unique style. She initially worked with pen and ink before transitioning to graphite in the late 1970s. From 1980 to 1985, Kaufman attended the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, where she earned a degree in nursing while also taking basic and life drawing courses. During this time, she became deeply interested in Carl Jung's work, especially his theories on archetypes and dream symbolism, as well as world religions, with a particular focus on Native American philosophy. These influences are evident in Kaufman’s art, where universal symbols and a deep reverence for nature are prominent themes. In 1989, Kaufman began working with colored pencils, a medium she continues to use today. A self-taught artist, she resides in Wisconsin and describes her works as "Illustrated Dreams," as they evoke the feeling of dreams. Her highly detailed colored pencil illustrations often feature young Asian women, and they beautifully capture a fantasy-like world of nature and children.