Arts and Culture: Karen Fabie Concepcion
The Colorful Life of Karen Fabie Concepcion: Art, Family, and Purpose
Meet Karen Fabie Concepcion, AC HS ‘86 resident artist and Creative Director at SMEG Philippines. While she plays many other roles—wife to Ton, mother to her wonderful kids, and most recently, grandma to an adorable grandchild—Karen’s talent knows no bounds. She transforms everyday life into a vibrant canvas, drawing inspiration from her travels and personal passions.
Karen’s artwork features a menagerie of beloved subjects—think horses, koi fish, and cymbidium orchids. Each piece tells a story, echoing her adventures and experiences. “Horses symbolize strength and grace, and I’ve been captivated by them since I was a kid,” she quips. The koi, with their splashy colors and tales of resilience, add a playful twist to her artistic repertoire. And let’s not forget the cymbidium orchids, which bring a touch of elegance to her creative buffet.
Japan holds a special spot in her artist’s heart, influencing her koi paintings with its serene aesthetics. “The Japanese embrace of simplicity inspires my focus on detail,” she says. It’s this harmony that finds its way into her work, creating a visual diary that’s as much about her journeys as it is about the art itself.
Incorporating the Assumption values she learned during her formative years, Karen emphasizes compassion, integrity, and a sense of community in her work and daily life. “Those values guide me in every project I undertake,” she reflects. Whether mentoring young artists or collaborating with local artisans, she embodies the spirit of service and respect that resonates with her Assumption education.
Balancing family life, artistic pursuits, social awareness, and a thriving career at SMEG, Karen’s life is a testament to living fully and purposefully. “I believe in creating a complete life,” she shares. At SMEG, she isn’t just pushing products; she’s weaving Philippine art into brand campaigns, proving that creativity and commerce can coexist beautifully. “I set clear boundaries but let both roles enrich each other,” she notes. This synergy is palpable, especially with her initiative, Karen’s Tindahan, which supports local artisans. “I created it to uplift Filipino craftsmanship while preserving our culture,” she emphasizes.
With 18 solo exhibitions under her belt and recent showcases in Milan and Paris, Karen is a global ambassador for Filipino art. Her mantra? “Present the best of what you love.” For aspiring artists, her advice is simple: “Explore what you’re passionate about. Infuse meaning into your work, and watch it resonate.”
In a world hungry for authentic voices, Karen Fabie Concepcion is a refreshing blend of passion, family, and purpose, transforming art into a force for good.
