Karen La Du
Karen La Du was educated at The University of Miami, FL (BA/BFA) and Kean University, NJ (MFA, Ed). Over 30 years ago after a successful career in visual merchandising with May Company, she began teaching and advocating for the fine arts in a diversity of venues including museums, public and private schools and in private practice. She has exhibited throughout the east coast and has work in private collections nationally and internationally. La Du relocated to Washington, DC in 2019, where she continues to observe, create, and teach art.
Website/Portfolio: Karen La Du
Instagram: @karen_la_du_art
About the Artwork
Across all media color, pattern, scale and perception drive my artistic process. Working with textiles has been a lifelong pursuit whether it be designing wearable/usable pieces, creating fabric patterns and books or using existing fabric to tell my story.
My narrative is drawn from memories. Deeply personal yet relatable in the commonality of its subject matter. The objective is to permit the viewer to imprint their stories on the canvas that is my work. I believe there’s a common human desire for expressing universal emotions of love, loss, home and hope.
Her Diner
Her Diner is a neighborhood queer restaurant and bar that provides a safe space for all people. Her offers casual American fare and inventive cocktails to diners while also providing a space to hold parties, fundraisers and events.
The mission of Her Diner is to create an inclusive and welcoming space for all members of the LGBTQ+ Community. Her uses the power of human interaction to welcome people from all walks of life to dine and drink with them.
Kelly Laczko is the current owner of Her Diner along with her wife Kethida. Her prides itself on their incredible staff who really create the vibe and they always say we would be nothing without the staff and loyal clientele. Since the grand opening in November of 2024 the support of the community has been overwhelming and they feel truly lucky to have the support of the neighborhood and community.