Karen Willenbrink-Johnsen

Karen Willenbrink-Johnsen’s work results from countless hours of observation and dedication to the studio glass movement. After earning her BFA in sculpture from Ohio University, glass quickly became the driving force in Karen’s life. She moved to Washington State in 1987, and soon afterward, she began working as an assistant to the legendary glass artist William Morris. Since then, Karen has honed her artistic voice and has helped pave the way for young women in the hot shop. Raised in Ohio, the daughter of a naturalist father, Willenbrink-Johnsen, is constantly inspired, revitalized, and awed by the power of nature; she aims to capture this spirit in her own work.

Karen’s unique vision and passion for glass is evident in everything she does. Through teaching sculpting classes worldwide with her husband and collaborator, Jasen Johnsen, they have inspired hundreds of new glass artists through their love and proficiency in glass.