The Dude Abides by Karen Chappelow

Artist Statement

“Nick Cave, represented as God as Alpha and Omega. I have reimagined the top window in The Great East Window at York Minster done approximately 1405. The window took approximately 30 years to build and has undergone extensive renovations in the 1800’s. The window Is designed to be read from top to bottom and follows the story of creation. It is an absolute masterpiece.

Not being a religious person myself, I am one who completely appreciates the work involved and it would be remiss of me not to include Nick – a modern day rock ‘god’…in place of alpha and omega …I include a tagline from one of my favourite movies ‘The Dude Abides’, which is fitting and the bible passage ..42 from The Hitchhikers Guide to The Galaxy and the meaning of life, the universe and everything.”

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.