Karen and Gene Wilder shared a deep and abiding love, one that was enriched by their mutual passion for painting. As they each pursued their artistic journeys, their creative expressions became yet another beautiful thread weaving them together.
Under the guidance of esteemed artist and teacher Diane Faxon, Karen and Gene explored their talents in the world of fine art. Diane’s instruction provided them with both technique and inspiration, helping them develop distinct voices in their work. While Karen’s oil paintings are celebrated for their evocative, deeply personal compositions, Gene’s watercolors became known for their vivid storytelling and whimsical yet poignant sensibilities.
Their painting sessions were more than just artistic endeavors—they were moments of connection, reflection, and joy. Whether working side by side or offering each other insight into their evolving works, the Wilders found in painting a form of communication that transcended words.
Now, in partnership with celebrated photographer Beowulf Sheehan, PAL-MEL Productions, alongside Karen Wilder, is proud to present limited-edition fine art prints of Gene and Karen’s paintings. The First Edition release will be strictly limited to 100 prints, each measuring 16”x20” and printed on Museum Etching 350 paper by the renowned Picto NY. Every piece will come with a certificate of authenticity, hand-signed by Karen Wilder.
Beowulf Sheehan, an artist in his own right, is best known for his striking portraits of cultural and literary icons. His impressive body of work spans more than 1,000 writers from over 60 countries, with his photography gracing the pages of Esquire, The New Yorker, Time, Vanity Fair, and Vogue. His work has been exhibited globally, including at the Dostoevsky Museum, the International Center of Photography, and the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. He has captured some of the most influential figures of our time, including Joe Biden, Bono, Stephen Colbert, Hugh Jackman, Cormac McCarthy, Toni Morrison, Yoko Ono, Lou Reed, Patti Smith, and Donna Tartt. In 2018, he published The Portraits of Beowulf Sheehan, a collection of 200 portraits with a foreword by Salman Rushdie.
On November 4th, 2024, Beowulf Sheehan wrote to Karen following the completion of the shoot:
“Thank you for all your kindness and for the joy of working with you, Karen, today as my assistant Jeska Sand and I photographed (I believe) 29 pieces in our time together in your lovely home. I'm so glad you're happy with what you saw of the work in its native, unprocessed state.”
With this release, we celebrate the Wilders' artistic legacy, offering collectors and admirers an opportunity to own a piece of their shared vision. These extraordinary prints will initially be available exclusively through this site—stay tuned for details on how to secure one of these rare and remarkable editions.
