About the Studio
Like many artists at the start of their careers, Karen’s art business began in a garage and a spare room in her home. While the space was functional at the time, she quickly outgrew it. In 2021, she and her team moved into a dedicated 1,000-square-foot studio on her estate, providing much-needed room to create and host private tours.
Yet again, the studio’s walls couldn’t contain Karen’s ever-growing vision. Now, she and her team are thrilled to announce their newest expansion—a spacious art studio and showroom in the heart of East Austin’s dynamic arts district. This new space not only allows for greater creative exploration but also provides an inspiring setting to share Karen’s work with collectors, collaborators, and the community.
Each of Karen’s pieces carries a story, often hidden beneath the surface. A visit to the studio offers a chance to uncover these narratives, gaining deeper insight into her artistic journey and process.
If you're interested in visiting, learning more about Karen’s work, or collaborating on a project, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us to schedule a private showing—we look forward to welcoming you!
Karen is drawn to books not simply due to the written words found on each page but rather the perfect construction maintained over centuries past. So often, books become objects of acquisition, sitting on shelves to be shown off or referenced, made obsolete by the passing of time.
About the Artist
Karen Hawkins is a contemporary sculpture artist based in Austin, Texas. A fine arts graduate from The University of Texas, she has gained widespread recognition for her innovative work, exhibiting in galleries and private collections across the country.
Her diverse body of work includes sculptural wall hangings, large-scale site-specific installations, and non-traditional art installations that engage with timely social concerns. By blending artistic expression with contemporary issues, Karen’s work serves as a compelling reflection of the world around us.
Karen has collaborated with some of the most respected designers and architects, including Fern Santini, Kasey McCarty Interior Design, Michael Hsu Office of Architecture, Ryan Street Architecture, and Studio Seiders. These partnerships have placed her work in prestigious spaces and high-profile projects, further cementing her influence in the art and design world. Her pieces are featured in both private collections and notable public installations, underscoring her broad artistic reach.
Beyond her artistic career, Karen’s greatest passion is her family. She cherishes time spent with her husband, Rick, their five children, and four grandchildren. Known for her kindness, compassion, and playful sense of humor, she brings warmth and creativity to every aspect of her life. A true 70s chick at heart, Karen embraces the era’s carefree spirit, infusing both her work and personal style with its bold and vibrant energy.
Meet Karen’s Team
Melissa Fabbio is the Studio Director of Karen Hawkins Studio, where she bridges the gap between artistic vision and business strategy. An Austin native and Karen’s youngest daughter, Melissa holds a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York.
Melissa plays a vital role in ensuring the studio’s continued growth and success. She oversees all operations, marketing, and production while managing client and gallery relationships, ensuring a seamless experience from commission to installation. Her strategic leadership has strengthened the studio’s branding, optimized efficiency, and expanded its national presence, making Karen Hawkins Studio a model for sustainability in the arts.
A rare and indispensable force in the art world, Melissa combines business acumen with a deep respect for the creative process. Her ability to balance structure with artistic freedom allows both the studio and its artist to thrive.
Melissa Fabbio, Studio Director
Elyse is a driving force behind Karen Hawkins Studio, overseeing strategic planning, business operations, and creative project management. With a background in print journalism and counselor education, she brings a sharp editorial eye, a structured approach to organization, and a deep understanding of human connection to her work.
Passionate about the intersection of art, storytelling, and strategy, Elyse plays a key role in shaping the studio’s growth and impact. She works closely with the team to expand the studio’s reach, foster meaningful collaborations, and ensure each project aligns with its artistic vision.
As the studio’s hiring lead, Elyse is deeply connected to the company’s culture, carefully selecting new team members who seamlessly fit into the studio’s creative and collaborative environment. Her ability to blend creativity with operational excellence makes her indispensable to the studio’s success.
Elyse Kusse, Director of Operations
Sasha Najera is the Production Manager at Karen Hawkins Studio, leading the art production team with precision, creativity, and a keen eye for detail. She first joined the studio as a part-time Art Production Assistant and, through her dedication and expertise, has grown into a pivotal leadership role over the past three years.
A native Austinite and a Psychology major at The University of Texas, Sasha blends analytical thinking with artistic expertise to ensure efficiency and excellence in every project. As the head of production, she plays a vital role in maintaining quality and innovation, keeping the studio running smoothly.
Sasha Najera, Production Manager
Melonie Carson, Art Production Assistant
Melonie is an Art Production Assistant at Karen Hawkins Studio, where she collaborates closely with Karen to help create each piece with precision. As the newest member of the team, she brings a thoughtful, hands-on approach to the creative process, supporting the studio’s mission through both artistry and technical skill.
An Austin native, Melonie has always been deeply connected to the local arts community, with a passion for championing fellow artists—especially women in the field. She holds a BA in Psychology from The University of Texas and has experience in leadership roles that span customer service, nonprofit partnerships, and retail operations. However, her true passion lies in the creative process, whether she’s assisting in the production of large-scale artwork or experimenting with her own painting, photography, and design projects.
“Karen is surrounded by a team of dedicated individuals who are extremely detail-oriented, organized, and remarkably precise. Their passion for art and expression is clear in every piece created.”
- Margo Sawyer, Artist and Mentor