Hello my Dabble family!
It’s Jen here, and I’m over-the-moon excited to introduce you to Karen Turner, a professional artist from beautiful Morehead City, North Carolina. Karen’s story is one of pure heart, courage, and a little dash of divine timing — the kind that reminds us how creativity always finds a way to bloom.
Karen’s Journey with Art
Karen’s art journey began just a couple of years ago, back in 2023, when she started painting for fun. She decided to show her very first piece to her neighbor — and that neighbor immediately asked her to paint a beach scene with turtles!
Now, if you’ve ever had someone request a painting when you’re just starting out, you’ll understand Karen’s mix of shock and delight. “What, you want me to paint something for your home?!” she remembers thinking. But she went for it — and nailed it. Her neighbor was thrilled and encouraged her to keep painting.
That moment lit a spark that hasn’t stopped glowing since. Soon after, a well-known artist recognized Karen’s talent and offered her a 12-week course in painting techniques — a gift that came right when she needed it most. “It was a huge blessing,” Karen said, especially during a tough financial time.
Then came her serendipitous encounter with DabblePaints™ — she saw a little snowman I was painting on an ad for the Dabble Cards, and something in her heart said, yes, that’s for me. That $7 Christmas card kit became her first step into our creative world, and she’s been painting right alongside us ever since.
What Inspires Karen Most
When I asked what fuels her creativity, Karen’s answer was simple and profound:
“Just seeing a blank canvas turn into a creation.”
Isn’t that the essence of why we paint? The quiet magic of taking nothing — and turning it into something beautiful
Karen’s Featured Artwork
The piece Karen shared with us bursts with color and joy — a floral celebration that’s as vibrant as her story. She told me she chose it “because of all the beautiful flowers and colors,” and honestly, it’s impossible not to smile looking at it.
I have to admit — when I first saw her painting, I leaned in like I was trying to smell those flowers through the screen. That’s how alive her colors are
What She Loves About DabblePaints™
Karen told me,
“How creamy they are and how smooth they go on! Then when you want 3D texture, these paints and colors are the best ever.”
I couldn’t agree more, Karen. That buttery texture is exactly why I fell in love with these paints in the first place. They’re made for artists who love to feel their work.
What She Enjoys Most About Painting
For Karen, it’s all about the joy of creation and watching a piece come to life. Every brushstroke feels like a blessing — and you can see that gratitude shining right through her work.
Her Advice for Beginners
Karen shared such beautiful wisdom:
“Relax and enjoy yourself each time you paint. Don’t overthink it. Just give yourself the space to learn and to practice. Go at your own pace — no one is chasing you to finish the task.”
Can we just pause and soak that in? That’s advice every artist — beginner or seasoned — needs to hear from time to time.
Karen, thank you for sharing your story, your faith, and your vibrant art with us. You are a reminder that creativity truly blossoms when we follow our hearts and trust the journey.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen