Karen Laurence-Rowe was born in Uganda – daughter to a civil engineer. Her family lived a nomadic existence spending much of their time in some of East Africa's most beautiful and unspoiled landscapes – teaming with wildlife and dramatic scenery.

"The beauty of Africa is ingrained in my blood – I love its untamed and often harsh beauty – its unpredictability. Africa is changing so fast – we are losing so much, I feel compelled to get it down – now – before it is lost forever."

Karen is a self taught painter and although studied Graphic Design and worked in Advertising for some years, in time, she began to explore the joy of Fine Art and has slowly developed a style which is fast becoming popular to her clients at home in Kenya and in the British and American Markets.

In May of 2012, Karen won the David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year Awards held at the Mall Galleries in London. She was winner of the Endangered Species category and voted overall winner of this prestigious annual event.

“As an artist for conservation, I was so proud to be shortlisted for the David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year awards - but to win it was beyond my wildest dreams! Living in Kenya, I see first-hand the devastating effects of poaching on our wildlife, so am well aware of the vital importance that the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation plays in fighting this conservation battle."

“It is events like these that not only raise awareness of the plight of the world's dwindling wildlife, but in addition help secure the crucial funds for the DSWF projects - and I am proud to be part of it.”

Karen is represented by various galleries in the the United Kingdom and is a founder member of Artists for conservation : www.natureartists.com

The Drang Gallery : www.thedranggallery.com

Art of Africa Gallery : www.fillingdon.com

Alexander Meddowes - Fine Art broker : www.alexandermeddowes.com