About Karin
Karin Billings is a multi-faceted artist, using the mediums of acrylics and oils. For many years she has studied with excellent teachers to broaden her painting techniques and perfect her craft. Her unique expressionistic style lends itself to a wide range of interpretations; lively human and animal figures, landscapes and abstract works-all expressed in amazing colors and motions. In addition to her original works Karin offers giclees of some pieces. She is also available for commissions.
An unsuspected part of her repertoire is the Japanese art form, Gyotaku, which uses real fish to make prints. The color, texture and shading of each fish is replicated resulting in a reproduction of the original fish.
Born in Hamburg, Germany Karin exhibits her work in Florida and Germany.
For Karin art is an extension of her life experiences. Growing up she was drawn to animals, specifically horses. Riding became her passion and as Karin Schluter she competed as a member of the German Olympic Dressage team. From 1972 to 1976 she won 4 German championships and with the team 2 European, 1 World Championship and a silver medal at the Olympic Games in Munich. Twice she flew her horses from Germany to the USA to participate in shows. In 1987 her horse, Amazons, won “Horse of the Year” at the highest Grand Prix level. In 1992 she became a US citizen and participated in the Olympic trials for the American team.
Between the 1972 and 1992 Olympics she traveled the world as a judge and trainer. Over 40 years ago she discovered Sarasota, fell in love with the community and purchased a home. Ever since she has split her time between Florida and Germany. While here she has become a competitive golfer and a national ballroom dance champion and a lover of bridge. In 2005 she married Jim Billings and recently they have made Sarasota their full time residence.
Karin has been a life long supporter of animal rights and has donated the majority of the proceeds from the sale of her artwork to a broad range of animal charities. It is her hope that her paintings bring as much pleasure to others as she derives from creating them. Her art is on display at her home. Please make an appointment to meet Karin and see her work first hand. Contact Karin here.