Karen Guzak

AIA Seattle Honorary Member 2005

Her architect colleagues admire and rely on Karen Guzak's engagement of artists in creating works relating to architectural space, and also her development of unique projects advancing design community.

In addition to her widely-exhibited projects as a painter and a printmaker, her works of public art attract public attention -- at the King County Council Chambers in Seattle, at SeaTac Airport, and at Overlake Transit Center in Redmond.

In 1989, Karen converted a SoDo warehouse into artists' live/work spaces:  Sunny Arms Artist Cooperative.  A few years later, she helped develop the Union Arts Cooperative.  These projects nurture community and creativity for many.

Between 1993 and 2001, Karen and her partner Warner Blake renovated the former St. Michael Church in Snohomish, housing  AngelArmsWorks Studio.  She served on the Snohomish City Council beginning in 2008, and as Mayor 2010-17.