35 Years of Self Portraits — Growing, Learning, and Healing as an Artist

Detail, “The Mask Is Behind Me” — Karen Espig, 30 x 15 inches, oil on canvas (2019)

I have been creating images of myself for 35 years and I do not plan on stopping any time soon.

But why do I do it?

I believe it is inspired by the desire to find, understand and embrace my particular beauty; and to express my unique voice. In art I feel I may be fully seen and heard. Outside of art, I have…