About

 

Artist Bio

I am a multi-disciplinary visual artist based in Cape Town, South Africa, specialising in graphic design, painting, brand strategy and web development. In my creative studio artistry and innovation converge.
With a strong foundation in visual art, I bring a versatile skill set to my artistic endeavours. Since very young I was surrounded with creativity and was encouraged to experiment with the arts and play. Graduating with five distinctions in visual art and design in 2000, I embarked on another phase of my creative journey that shaped my artistic identity.

SOME BACKGROUND
For many years, my primary focus was on graphic design. I had the fortune of working closely with my father, as well as collaborating with advertising agencies, media houses, and small businesses. I’ve been incredibly privileged with opportunities to delve into diverse projects. Across varied industries, I’ve contributed to crafting visually striking and impactful designs. I have refined my skills in typography, print and digital processes, branding, and most parts user interface design, creating designs that blend form and function. These experiences have allowed me to develop an intuitive understanding of visual communication and the power of design to captivate and engage.

RESHAPING
Life has a way of reshaping our creative paths. With a sudden personal loss in 2021, I underwent a profound transformation and in 2023, guided by an inner calling I delved back into the realm of painting. Enrolling in a professional art mastery program, I eagerly absorbed knowledge and was immersed in the rich world of textures, colours, and emotions that can only be expressed through brushstrokes on canvas. This journey has been one of self-discovery, of unearthing my authentic voice and exploring the depths of my creativity. It’s not merely about honing the techniques of artistic expression, but rather about embracing the profound journey of mastering life itself – striving to become the fullest expression of one’s potential.

STEADY AIM
Whether through design or art, my goal remains steadfast: to craft meaningful and impactful experiences through creativity. For me, being an artist transcends mere vocation; it’s a way of life—a perpetual state of perceiving, a deliberate channeling of energy towards creativity, and a deep attunement to subtleties.

With a wealth of expertise and a unique perspective, I approach each project with dedication. Whether you seek artwork for your walls, graphic designs for your business or socials, or a website to showcase your creative journey or products, I’m here to collaborate, and bring your visions to life.

HOW MAY I ASSIST YOU?
Want a personalised commission, to know more or book a consultation? Contact me via my Contact Page to discuss how I can assist you and bring your artistic dreams to fruition!

  • WENDY FREDRIKSSON

    Karen has been an absolute pleasure to work with, from her ability to quickly and thoroughly understand the brief, to her creative contributions in the conceptual process, and her streamlined and efficient work flow, to the delivery of exquisite design. She’s an excellent communicator throughout the process, and never misses a detail. In my field of work time is always of the essence and Karen’s ability to just nail it every time makes all the difference.

  • GERDA DE WET, ROOIBOS LIMITED

    Rooibos Ltd has been working with Karen since 2008 on various projects – and it always has been an absolute pleasure. The level of service and communication has been outstanding and refreshing. Efficient, good service, very courteous, professional and got the job done perfectly!

  • KATHY LEVERTON, CAPE HIKE AND CLIMB

    Karen is very friendly, patient and understanding. She takes your half ideas of what you want and turns them into a fantastic presentation. Karen built a beautiful website for me that has everything I wanted, as well as a few extra features I didn’t know I wanted, but turns out I needed.

  • URIEL FILIBA

    I've had the pleasure of collaborating with Karen Hermans since 2017, and from the very outset, she infused our challenging creative projects with a dynamic new energy. Karen possesses a remarkable talent for grasping the essence of what we envisioned and translating that into impactful, high-quality deliverables. Her understanding of client objectives, combined with her swift and straightforward approach to project execution, sets her apart. Karen consistently exceeds expectations, going above and beyond to deliver excellent results. 


    Upon transitioning to a new role, one of my first actions was to involve Karen in our projects, where she quickly proved her superiority over other professionals we were engaged with. Her contributions have been invaluable, enhancing numerous projects and solidifying a highly valued and ongoing partnership. I am immensely grateful for Karens dedication and the outstanding quality of her work. I cannot recommend her highly enough to anyone seeking a true professional who delivers results that truly resonate with their audience…. And how quick she is. 


    Lastly, and most importantly, Karen is a true artist. This distinction sets her apart from many designers, strategists, or marketers. Her artistry shines through in her projects, allowing her to express complex ideas and emotions through diverse mediums. Her work does not just meet expectations—it resonates on a deeper level, embodying true creative vision. I am immensely grateful for Karens dedication, contribution to my portfolio and the outstanding quality of her work. 

  • RAYMOND SIEBRITS, KLEIN RIVER CHEESE

    Working with Karen is as seamless as having a full-time professional in our business. Turnaround times are epic, communication crisp, and results always exceed expectations. This is highly valuable for a small business that cannot carry a permanent talent. Karen also brings a friendly, human, and personalised element to the projects we undertake together – something sadly lacking in today’s remote and over-digitised world. We would highly recommend Karen’s services for creative and technical design – whether it be from developing brand identity, packaging artwork, digital real estate, or even just a traditional old business card.

  • DEVIN ABRAHAMSON, FRIXION ADVENTURES

    From my first interaction with Karen, all the anxiety and pressure of coming up with a completely new brand and logo diminished immediately.

    Karen had a great organic system whereby she would send ideas/thoughts/examples and we would back and forth with each other. She guided me in ways I had very little knowledge about. The way a logo needs to fit into social media platforms, black and white vs colour, contrasts, simplicity vs complex and most importantly the different formats. She provided me with ALL the formats I needed and still use all the time for stickers, marketing material, printing of mugs, contrasting black and white and for designing my social media posts. She is efficient, extremely professional and gave me great advice after the project was completed. I would not hesitate to recommend Karen Hermans for your Digital Design needs and requirements.

    Thank you so much Karen, I love my company’s logo.

  • DOMINIQUE GAUD

    Some of the most cherished pieces in my art collection are the ones by the talented artist Karen Hermans, whose captivating portrayal of waves holds a special place in my heart. Her mesmerising interpretation of ocean waves captures the fluidity and power of the sea with grace and precision. Each brushstroke seems to dance across the canvas, evoking a sense of movement and tranquility that speaks to my love of the ocean. Karen’s artwork serves as a constant reminder of the endless beauty and ever-changing nature of the sea, bringing a sense of calm and wonder into our home. 

    Art brings feelings of connection and Karen’s pieces are cherished treasures that catch the eye of every visitor to our home, connecting them to the timeless rhythm of the waves.

  • PETER KRUG, GINGKO SPA

    Karen has worked on our digital and print media advertisement campaigns for a number of years. We have always been satisfied with Karen’s work and would not hesitate to recommend her services to any prospective client.

    Furthermore, I would like to acknowledge the high standard of work, her creativity and punctuality on delivery deadlines that she has always delivered, is exemplary!

  • DR ANGELA ASSAD-LEVIN

    I had the pleasure of experiencing Karen’s skill in web design. It was a seamless process. She was patient and understanding and professional at all times.

  • GAYLEEN MCQUEEN

    I have known Karen for several years. I have made use of her services in design on several occasions, and in addition, photography and work on my website. She has excellent work ethics and is very professional.

    Gayleen McQueen, original owner of Gayleen’s Decadence

  • JOANNE HOLMWOOD

    I have no hesitation in recommending Karen to any company.
    Karen has done design work for us on a number of our products and we have been very happy with all her work. She has been prompt and extremely efficient in supplying our label designs and very helpful along the way too. We would definitely like to work with her again in the future for our up and coming products.

    Joanne Holmwood, original owner of O’Natural