Filthy Lucre by Karen Chappelow

Artist Statement

“Money makes the world go round, money’s too tight to mention, filthy lucre are some of the responses given to me when I asked my peers what it meant to them, to society or the end game of having it. I’ve translated these responses as the Babel Fish does (he pops up in my work from time to time – and it’s his job to translate)..going from the cash and the words in relief in the chalice or wine glass in my case. Money can be used for good, for bad, it can change people’s lives, their personalities, their outlook in life and their physical bodies etc. It’s what we choose to do with it that is interesting. And Our perception of the world and the people that live in it can be changed by an absence of it and indeed too much of it. How much is enough? It can turn a person into a Hero, Heroine or Bastard.”

About the Artist

“I like it when I get a physical reaction from people when they view my art.  The whimsy, fun and sometimes political nature of life is evident in my work.  By expressing the fierceness of a female, the ridiculous in a scenario, becomes a message turned into humour softening the blow, breaking down barriers.  The expressionist nature of my work tries to blur the edges of reality and hopefully makes people smile, wonder, think and create conversation.”

Karen Chappelow has been sculpting and painting for more than 20 years, she has a drive for bucking the system and invites the viewer to view life through a different lens. Karen has collectors both Nationally and Internationally.

In recent times Karen has been extensively exhibiting in New York, Madrid, Luxembourg, Berlin, Rome and Malmo-Sweden. Also exhibiting in group shows in Perth and Melbourne. Karen’s work has appeared on the “The Block” a TV renovation show on Channel 9.

Karen will also be appearing in Home Design Magazine August 2023 edition.

Follow Instagram and Facebook @karenchappelow_artist for new work.