Interviewee:
Karen Hallion (She/Her)
In your words… Tell us about your organization, business, initiative.
Karen Hallion Illustration is a creative business based in Salem, Massachusetts, that specializes in unique and whimsical illustrations that capture the imagination of people of all ages. Founded by artist Karen Hallion, we offer a range of products including prints, postcards, pins, stickers, coloring books, children’s books and more, all featuring Karen’s signature illustrations and style.
Karen’s work is inspired by her love for pop culture, feminism, social justice, science fiction, fantasy, and fairy tales. She often features well-known characters from movies, TV shows, and books in her artwork, but puts her own twist on them to create something new and exciting. In addition, her work serves as a reminder that art can be a powerful tool for social change and activism. Karen Hallion Illustration is built around Karen’s talent as an artist and her ability to connect with a dedicated audience of fans who appreciate her unique and imaginative style.
Tell us a bit about you and why you do what you do? Share your passions for your business, initiative, organization.
Creating art has been something that I have been compelled to do since I was very young. It’s a way for me to communicate my thoughts and ideas about the world around us, and to show my love about the movies, books and media that I enjoy.
I am an illustrator and author, and a 1997 graduate of Ringling School of Art and Design, with a BFA in Illustration. I worked as an elementary art school teacher before transitioning into a full-time career as a freelance artist. I have done licensed work for clients including Disney, Her Universe, Chronicle Books, the League of Women Voters, and more. I wrote and illustrated my first children’s book,Never Never Quit in 2018 and in 2022, I self-published the She Series Book,featuring 120 portraits and essays of inspiring icons whose actions changed the world. I have worked to build a strong online community and enjoy participating in shows and conventions throughout the year to meet people and geek out with them over our shared love of our favorite fandoms.
What role do you think your business plays in supporting a more creative community? OR your community in general. (Bonus! Why do you think a more creative community is important?)
It’s a common misconception that artists don’t earn a good living, the whole “starving artist” myth. I think having a successful art business in a community helps fight that myth. It can help encourage others to pursue creative careers, which can only enrich a community. I think having more artists and creatives in any community is always a good thing. Creativity open minds and encourages innovation.
What was the last book you read OR What was the last video you watched that made an impact on you?
When I was 16 I saw the Little Mermaid and that movie inspired me to become an artist. I didn’t have a clear vision of what I wanted to do with my art, I just knew that I wanted to do….something.
Last week I saw the new, live-action version of the Little Mermaid. They had taken the original and enhanced it. They made it richer, added depth to the characters and the story. And just like when I was 16, I walked out of that theater inspired.
I have done what I wanted to do when I was 16, I have a career as an artist but now just like Ariel, I want more. I am now thinking about ways to add richness and depth to my art, and my career, thinking about what my next goals are.
What’s the one thing people would be surprised to learn about you or your business?
It’s a family affair! My sister in my business manager, my brother runs our Etsy shop and my oldest son works part-time filling orders. I do a lot of online gaming at night after I am done working. For the last few years I have sunk way too many hours into Apex Legends and I am Diamond ranked.
What is Creative Collective?
Creative Collective is a group of economic development strategists, small business supporters, activation specialists, and believers in the importance of the creative workforce. We foster growth, sustainability, and scalability for small businesses, creative thinkers, organizations, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Learn more and join Creative Collective at www.creativecollectivema.com/join
Karen Hallion Illustration
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Karen Hallion is an illustrator and author whose art is characterized by its use of bright colors, intricate details, and a touch of humor, which make her work resonate with fans of all ages worldwide. A 1997 graduate of Ringling School of Art and Design with a BFA in Illustration, Karen worked as an elementary art school teacher before transitioning
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