With a profound love for artistry, a dedication to creativity permeates her life in both personal and professional realms. Karen Fabie Concepcion, a Filipino artist and the Creative Director at SMEG Philippines, channels her experiences and travels into her work, finding inspiration in subjects like horses, koi fish, and cymbidium orchids. These themes hold a special significance, as they reflect the varied dimensions of her journey, blending her artistic passions with her life story.
“My exploration of subjects like horses, koi, and the cymbidium orchids are all deeply rooted in my personal experiences and passions,” she explains in an interview with The Global Filipino Magazine. Horses, a symbol of strength and grace, have fascinated her since childhood, and her equestrian pursuits have enriched her portrayal of these majestic animals. Likewise, the koi fish’s symbolic meanings of resilience and perseverance and their vibrant colors make them an engaging subject for Karen. The intricate beauty of cymbidium orchids also captivates her, adding elegance and complexity to her work.
Karen’s artistic vision is fueled by her travels, which offer her exposure to diverse cultures and environments, leaving a lasting impression on her creations. “My travel experiences add layers of inspiration and diversity into my creative process,” she shares, describing her journeys as a form of “creative storytelling.” Her memories are woven into each piece she produces, creating what she refers to as “a visual diary.”
Japan, in particular, holds a special place in Karen’s heart. Its culture of simplicity and deep respect for nature has influenced her artistic style, especially in her koi paintings. “The Japanese aesthetic of harmony and balance shapes how I compose my artwork, inspiring me to focus on details,” she says, a sentiment that resonates in the tranquil compositions of her koi-themed paintings.
Aside from her artistic career, Karen balances her role at SMEG Philippines with her creative pursuits. As Creative Director, she integrates her love for art into brand campaigns, and finds that both roles complement each other seamlessly. “Balancing my artistic career with my role as Creative Director at SMEG Philippines involves setting clear boundaries while allowing both roles to enrich each other,” Karen explains. This synergy is further supported by SMEG’s commitment to promoting Philippine art, which aligns well with her advocacy for local artistry.
This advocacy extends beyond her professional sphere. In 2019, Karen founded Karen’s Tindahan, a project focused on supporting Philippine artisans and preserving Filipino culture. “Karen’s Tindahan was created with the vision to help and support Philippine artisans,” she shares. The initiative collaborates with Basey, Samar’s skilled weavers and Cavite’s talented embroiderers, providing economic opportunities for these communities while spotlighting Filipino craftsmanship. “Through Karen’s Tindahan, I aim to celebrate Philippine culture and support communities and jobs,” she emphasizes, underscoring her dedication to making art meaningful and impactful.
Karen has participated in 18 solo exhibitions and numerous group shows both locally and internationally, including recent exhibits in Milan and Paris. Whether on the local or global stage, she brings her authentic perspective to each presentation. “My approach is to present the best of my works,” she says, noting that she values the freedom in open-themed group exhibits. She believes that, while each artist brings a unique voice, her work resonates most when it reflects her genuine interests and inspirations.
For aspiring artists, Karen offers advice grounded in passion and purpose. “I would advise aspiring artists to embrace and have the courage to explore subjects they are passionate about,” she says, encouraging artists to reflect on causes close to their hearts. By incorporating meaningful themes into their work, artists can connect with audiences and communities, creating a more impactful creative journey. “It takes empathy and humility to understand the needs of different communities,” she explains, urging artists to approach their advocacy with respect and resilience.