Makers on Main: “Likes & Dislikes” Portraits with Karen Boyhen

Makers On Main is a reoccurring program at the ASM that shifts the spotlight onto you!

We’re welcoming artists, performers, and makers of all kinds to help bring to life our Signs on Mainstreet Exhibit. Share your “magic” on our 1950s-style street cape complete with vintage storefronts and cobbled stones of yesteryear.

Makers On Main will be happening on weekends throughout the summer months. Be sure to stop by and support our local artists!

“Likes & Dislikes Portraits with Karen Boyhen

Karen Boyhen

I believe in drawing as a healthy and mindful daily practice. I document observed interactions with pen on paper, while exploring relationships between people and also of line and space in compositions. A look into my sketchbook reveals my imagination and sense or humor. Interests include drawing “likes and dislikes portraits” and seeking inspiration from (wild) life.

A seasoned creative with over 30 years in the visual communication field, I am focused on building new creative partnerships.

I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design while on athletic scholarship for Javelin and shotput at Central Connecticut State University. I studied at the School of Visual Arts in NYC in the ‘90s and revisited the school in 2015 for an intensive summer residency program: Illustration and Visual Storytelling: Art and Industry.

What are Likes and Dislikes Portraits?

It is a great experience to sit across the table from someone and drawing their portrait. Along with the challenge of getting their likeness on paper, I am also delighted to listen to their stories. I often pose the intentionally vague questions of “What are your likes?” and “What are your dislikes?”. Sometimes people say very tangible things and other times, I find myself writing a long list of funny behaviors that irk them… with both of us laughing while I draw!

I like adding these answers to the page because along with perhaps their hairstyle or glasses, their answers act like a timestamp to what trends they’re following — along with things they love or long-held pet peeves.

Learn more about Karen’s work here.

Included with the price of admission.