Addison Karl (b. 1982) emerges as a fervent visual artist deeply connected to his Chickasaw and Choctaw heritage. Born in Denver and immersed in the arid splendor of Phoenix, Arizona, Addison's artistic trajectory is a testimony to his enduring quest to produce work that strikes a chord with museums, galleries, and collectors internationally.
He studied briefly Fine Arts at the Art Institute, before ultimately choosing to leave the formal academic setting in pursuit of his own creative path. This decision led him to explore screen printing, a medium he had initially encountered in high school art classes and embraced for its process. This formative experience enabled him to sharpen his skills and cultivate his understanding of drawing and the creative process, paving the way for the unfolding of his artistic journey.
Adopting a multidisciplinary approach, Addison's artistic pursuits encompass painting, drawing, public art, and sculpture. Since 2016, he has ventured into the realm of sculpture, refining his craft in bronze casting at Two Ravens Studio in Tacoma and glass casting in Murano under the tutelage of the esteemed Giorgio Giuman.
Driven by an unwavering passion for his craft and a distinct vision, Addison Karl aspires to create the kind of artwork that he has always longed to see in museums, galleries, and private collections. By addressing this void, Addison introduces a fresh and authentic perspective, positioning himself as a compelling force and visual storyteller.
In 2023, Addison received the esteemed Artist Trust Fellowship and Grant. Prior to this recognition, in October 2022, he secured both Second Place in the Bronze Division Sculpture category and Third Place in the Division Painting category at the Southeastern Art Show and Market, from the Chickasaw Nation.
Earlier in 2022, Addison was invited to participate in a 3 month Artist Residency Program at Amazon Headquarters in Seattle. In 2021, Addison's sculpture earned him multiple awards, including 3rd Place in Sculpture at the Southeastern Art Show and Market, Chickasaw Nation, and both 1st and 2nd Place Bronze at the Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market.
In 2020, Addison received the distinguished Tony Stones Award, commended by the Society of Portrait Sculptors. His accomplishments in 2019 include securing 3rd Place Bronze at the Southeastern Art Show and Market, Chickasaw Nation, and being granted the Artists in Business Leadership Fellowship by the First Peoples Fund.