Karen Santen is an accomplished Dutch artist, born in Amsterdam in 1951. With an extensive background in woodworking and ceramics from the renowned Rietveld Academy, she creates unique ceramic sculptures and installations that reflect her deep appreciation for materiality and its origins. Over the years, she has honed her craft through various residencies, including significant time at the European Ceramic Work Center and in Kõkar, Finland, where she explored seasonal changes in her artwork.

In addition to her artistic practice, Karen has contributed to the arts community as an educator, providing workshops to aspiring artists in Johannesburg and planning various art projects in secondary schools. She is a member of multiple artistic associations, including the Dutch Sculptors Association. Her work has been showcased in numerous solo and group exhibitions, both in the Netherlands and internationally, including notable installations in Amsterdam's galleries. Karen Santen's artistry is a testament to her dedication and exploration of the intersections between nature, culture, and craft.