Raised in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, I grew up with a mother who inspired me to explore many types of arts and crafts. I settled on drawing with coloured pencils as they suited my introverted personality. I would always find a way to fit drawing into my life.

As an adult, I did not have the resources to attend art school and was fortunate to have enjoyed a long career as a merchandiser in the lighting industry. I was the first woman in Canada to have earned a Certified Lighting Consultant designation with The American Home Lighting Association. Every ounce of creativity went into each display. I loved my work!

After retiring (just as Covid hit), I had the relentless urge to create again. The coloured pencils came out of my closet once more, and ‘Karen Thomas Fine Art’ was started in November 2023.