Karen Griffiths Paints the Town

“I just lay low and work hard,” says artist Karen Griffiths of her approach to the lively, colorful art that she creates. Griffiths works in liquid acrylics with an entirely free hand. “No sketching. I draw with my paintbrush. I look at the wall and envision what’s needed.”

Griffiths was educated in her home state, at Ohio University and Ohio State University and began working as an art instructor in 1964. She spent 16 years teaching in private and public schools while also working as a commercial artist. Her work appeared in school textbooks and Highlights for Children, among others.

She began painting in this area in 1998, primarily as a mural artist. Her creations can be seen in numerous commercial and private locations, including Ebro Greyhound Park, Gugliemo’s, Sandestin’s Linkside Pub, Majestic Sun, and Stinky’s Fish Camp.

The artist put together the framed art that decorates the walls at the Sunside CafÈ in Miramar Beach and recently created canvases of blues legends for the Bluz club next door. The works on display are also for sale.

Griffiths was recently chosen to create the poster for next year’s Seabreeze Jazz Festival at Pier Park. She was also commissioned to paint for three state offices in Panama City through a privately funded effort.

“Until this point, I’ve always done mural art,” says Griffiths. A gallery does not represent her, and Griffiths doesn’t go out of her way to promote herself. “People see my work on location and seek me out. It’s just mushroomed.”

- C.M.