About

Caryn Fensel’s art is a celebration of lively color and modern form—designed to turn everyday rooms into joyful, sophisticated galleries.

Nice to meet you! I'm Caryn —a Chicago-based artist, previously creating under the handle "Stroke of Colors" after surviving a stroke at only 29.

I am inspired by the daily moments of life... the kind of beauty that could go unnoticed if you're not tuned in. I strive to have these moments, those feelings of being overwhelmed by goodness, live forever through my work.

Art simply brings me joy, and I hope you'll add some of that shared joy to your world, or share it as a gift to someone you love.

When I'm not creating art, you'll find me in my garden, practicing yoga, reading, knitting, sharing a colorful meal and laughing with friends, or simply smothering any one of our three beloved pets: Franklin Beans (dog, 6) Kimi (dog, 5), Raymond (tux cat, 12?).

A thank you to my husband, Phil, for living with my chaotic, house-overtaking process.

FAQs

Where did you go to Art School?

I didn't! I felt I had to be "practical" and got a BA at SMU (Southern Methodist University) in Dallas, TX for Creative Advertising with an Art Direction concentration. Advertising seemed like the livable compromise of art and seriousness.

I am self and community taught. I love the phrase community taught— I didn't get here on my own. I've learned from what other artists have graciously shared on social media and I have recently taken a handful of classes at a local Art Center. If you are in Chicago and are looking for a community to stretch your artistry with, check out Lill Street Art Center! I also had a session with Leah Gardner when I began working with oils! I love her work, as well.