Karen Lembke was born in Portland, Oregon, the daughter of pedagogical and maritime lineages. She finds an immense joy and fascination in people and entertains the idea of becoming a teacher at some point in her life. She feels a visceral desire to be near water. Hearkening back to her childhood of fort building and invisible friends, her work ranges from mythological millineries to playful fiber sculptures. She is never not amazed by the textures of life. In her free time she enjoys endless walks, stray cats, photography, and field recordings.