Karen Nash

Lives and works in Newport, RI

Artist statement

I love sharp implements, noisy machinery, and blazing torches. Power tools can be fun, too. Found-object assemblage is my favorite technique; I’m fascinated by the castoffs of our throwaway lifestyle. As the bumper sticker says, “Life’s a Beach.” I go beachcombing through other folks’ trash, parking lot litter, dumpster debris, flea markets, yard sales, and real beaches – if it looks like an art part, it’s mine. Commoner’s Second Law of Ecology - “Nothing ever really goes away” – is always in force, so, being law-abiding, I aim to convert as much of it as possible to art.

Artwork