My name is Karla Kay Benjamin. I am an artist that specializes in hand painted silk scarves, wall hangings, and batiks. I am a native of the PNW but I attended college at Arizona State University and have a BFA with an emphasis in Fiber Arts/Surface Design.
I enjoy working on fabric because when the fabric moves it seems to bring the art to life. I enjoy working on silk because of the beautiful way it absorbs the dyes and shimmers when it moves and the light hits it. You will see both nature and animal themes in my work. I like the outdoors and this is reflected in my art.
After receiving my art degree from in 1989, I taught and sold my art pieces for about 10 years. Looking for more consistent pay and benefits I then took a job with Snohomish County Superior Court utilizing my computer skills as well as my teaching skills working with youth. I worked first with their youth programming creating an artist mentor program titled the Blanche Miller Art Exhibit which matched youth up with artist mentors and they I displayed the artwork in the community. In the end, I worked with their drug court program.
After my mother died from cancer in 2009, I had a couple cancer scares myself. A peer gave me the DVD “The Secret” and after viewing it, I decided I needed some me time and I decided to pursue my passion for art. In May of 2016, 16 years after going to work at the county, I quit my job with the county and went to work for myself making art. I have never looked back. It was a scary decision to make but I am doing ok. I look forward to each day the spark of creativity it brings and I am meeting all my sales goals. I am very proud of my company.
Some people wear my art. Some people hang my art on the wall as art. I carry magnetic frames that allow you to do both. They hold the silk with magnets (so they do not harm the silk). These frames make it easy and very economical to hang my art on the wall without damaging it. Because the frames are magnetic it is easy to take the scarf down to wear it out on the town and then hang the scarf up again when you get home!
Website: Karlakayart.com
If you have questions or want to commission one of my pieces, you may call/text me at: 425-220-7181. You may also email me at: [email protected]
Sales
Originals. I sell directly off this website. I also sell from the gallery in my studio (call ahead if you want to visit). I also try to get to 1 art show each month so people can meet with me and see my pieces in person. Check out my art show listings by clicking here: Upcoming Art Shows
Prints (via Fineartamerica.com). At Fineartamerica they print my images on bags, journals, shower curtains, yoga mats, phone cases, etc. Check out my Fineartamerica listings by clicking here: Fineartamerica.com
Originals for sale
Mother’s Day Music Special
Original Art. One of a kind. Blue and Black Guitar. Painted silk wall hanging or scarf. Steam set. Color fast. $200.00 including scarf, magnetic frame (detachable), tax, and shipping. I can take payment via Square, Venmo, Paypal, and Cash. Contact me at [email protected] or via text at 425-220-7181.
Sold Items Gallery
Art Booth
Artist in Action