Is Embryo under copyright?

Yes, this artwork is still under copyright.

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Collectible Description

From the Artist: This tiny, one-of-a-kind artist’s book was created Easter weekend during the quarantine lock-down using a real, free-range chicken egg shell and handmade, hand-dyed papers. The six leaves of the book are bound by a single stitch of thread to a small linen spine attached to the inside ‘end papers’ of the shell. The full text reads “Explore your inner space, store food, take nourishment, and gather strength for the world to come. And never stop creating.” Decorating Easter eggs is an activity I never grew out of, even after my kids did. This year I needed to level it up. After blowing out and cleaning the egg, I chipped slowly and carefully away at the shell to split it in two halves as neatly as possible. Fragile, challenging material for fragile, challenging times. And when the two halves came apart at last, albeit a little rough at the edges, it really did feel like some kind of breakthrough. Something had hatched—the creative process itself. A way to move forward while stuck in one place.

Artist Biography

Karen Viola: Exploring Nature's Narrative Through Kinetic Book Art

Karen Viola (born March 28, 1965) is a Canadian artist whose distinctive approach to book art—characterized by unconventional forms and explorations of natural patterns—has garnered critical acclaim. Rooted in her formative years spent in White Plains, New York, Viola’s artistic journey began with a passion for storytelling and a profound connection to the environment. Her background in children's book publishing instilled a meticulous attention to detail and a dedication to crafting immersive experiences for young audiences.

Early Influences & Education

Viola’s fascination with music started early, picking up violin at sixteen before transitioning to viola in 1941. This musical foundation profoundly shaped her artistic sensibilities, fostering an understanding of rhythm, texture, and expressive nuance—elements she seamlessly integrates into her sculptural book creations. She pursued formal training at Parsons School of Design, earning a BFA degree that solidified her commitment to artistic exploration and experimentation. The influence of Katherine Ann Tuttle, her mother, who instilled in her a love for literature and observation, further nurtured Viola’s creative spirit.

The Philosophy Behind Kinetic Book Art

Viola's artistic vision centers around capturing the essence of nature—its intricate rhythms and captivating narratives—within the framework of kinetic book art. Unlike traditional printmaking techniques, she employs innovative methods that combine sculptural elements with movement, mirroring the dynamism inherent in natural ecosystems. Her work delves into themes of interconnectedness, transformation, and the beauty found within seemingly simple forms. Viola’s exploration of coordination – a teaching system developed by Katherine Tuttle focusing on posture, balance, and mindful engagement – reflects her belief in holistic artistic practice.

Notable Works & Recognition

Among Viola's celebrated pieces are “Embryo,” “Ten Paces,” and “Mammoth in the Frozen Soil,” each demonstrating her masterful manipulation of mixed media—primarily hand-dyed textiles and sculptural forms—to convey profound emotional resonance. Her collaborative efforts with the Center for Book Arts have solidified her position as a leading figure in contemporary book art, furthering her commitment to pushing artistic boundaries. Furthermore, Viola’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through her own publishing imprint, Climbing Tree Press, where she champions experimental editions and promotes sustainable practices within the arts community.

Legacy & Continuing Exploration

Karen Viola continues to refine her artistic techniques and conceptual explorations, driven by an unwavering desire to communicate the transformative power of observation and imagination. Her pioneering approach to kinetic book art has inspired a new generation of artists and solidified her place as a visionary voice in the realm of sculptural storytelling—a testament to her enduring passion for capturing the beauty and complexity of the natural world through innovative artistic mediums.

karen tuttle

1965 - , United States of America

Quick Facts

Artistic Movement Or Style: Mixed media book art
Date Of Birth: 1965
Full Name: Karen Viola
Nationality: Canadian
Notable Artworks:
- Embryo
- Ten Paces
- Mammoth in the frozen soil
Place Of Birth: White Plains, United States

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Embryo

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Giclée / Art Print

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Giclée / Art Print

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Collectible Description

Artist Biography

Karen Viola: Exploring Nature's Narrative Through Kinetic Book Art

Early Influences & Education