ABOUT THE ARTIST

I’m Karen Parry the artist behind Kaz and Kika. 

A life spent across multiple continents has deeply influenced my creative vision as an artist, illustrator, and graphic designer.

Born and raised in Australia, its bright colors, harsh light, and striking landscapes continue to inspire my work.

My creative journey started at the Queensland College of Art in Brisbane, where I studied photography but after a few years working as a photographer, I switched to graphic design.

In 1988, I moved to Berlin, Germany, and in late 1989, I had a front-row seat to history – the fall of the Berlin Wall. While I was there, I worked as Art Director for The Edge and later the berliner. As the city changed, so did my path, which led me across the globe – first to San Francisco and then to New York – each city leaving its mark on my work.

Alongside my illustration practice, I run Black Graphics, my graphic design studio, where I bring my love of composition and typography to all my projects. And as part of my journey, I’ve been lucky to share my expertise through teaching roles in photography, design, and typography in Sydney, San Francisco, and New York.

Now based in Manhattan in New York City, my art blends urban energy with the vibrant colors of my Australian roots.

Contact me at karen@kazandkika.com.

THE STORY BEHIND THE NAME

Kaz and Kika was created in 2022 as a home for my artwork, pattern, and illustration designs.

Kaz comes from my childhood nickname – a shortened version of Karen.

Kika is my much-loved cat and trusted studio sidekick. Her name’s short for “kitty kat” – and it just fit, because she loved batting around those little foam soccer balls. She was born in a vacant lot in Red Hook, Brooklyn, in 2017, rescued with her two siblings, and came to live with me in Manhattan when she was just three months old. Sweet and skittish in equal measure, she keeps me company while I work.

© Copyright 2025 Karen Parry. All rights reserved.