KAREN BURKE
After nearly 30 years as a nurse, Enfield, CT native Karen Burke picked up a camera and began photographing the animals in her life, including her own pets, backyard visitors, and those at local farms and zoos. Using self-taught Photoshop skills, she began adding whimsical touches to her images, bringing personality and humor to each one.
That spark of whimsy led to professional representation for her work. Since 2019, Karen’s art has been licensed by puzzle and art companies worldwide. Her photographs have earned multiple awards and were featured in the print edition of National Geographic.
Recently, Karen has expanded her creative pursuits by joining local art organizations and exploring new mediums, including pottery and painting. She is the co-founder of Puddleby Charities, a nonprofit that uses the arts in all their forms to support populations in need.
In 2025, Karen received an Honorable Mention at the Piedmont Art Show in Somers, CT, and was the featured artist in Puddleby Charities’ premiere benefit exhibition, The Puddleby Portraits and Bestiary of Old Masters. Over two weekends, her work helped raise more than $10,000 for an organization that trains service/support support dogs for people with disabilities, including those on the autism spectrum. This original show will be on display at the Longmeadow Adult and Senior Center, opening November 6, 2025 from 5–7 p.m. and running through December 2, 2025.
Karen is a proud member of Scantic River Artisans, where she continues to connect with fellow creatives and explore new ways to express her growing artistic vision.
