Welcome to Rivers Speak in Voltage!

Walk with me—into the spaces where art and nature entwine, where the act of creating becomes a form of listening. Through stories, imagery, and quiet reflection, we’ll cultivate resilience, awareness, and a renewed sense of connection. Each post is an offering—part reflection, part artistry, part gentle guidance—designed to explore how the rhythms of the natural world can awaken and steady us, reminding us what it means to feel deeply alive in a complex time.

Hello, I’m Karen Olson

I am a photographer, papermaker, paper sculptor, and forest therapy guide. Through concept-based projects, I explore how our relationship with the natural world supports mental health and strengthens human connection. My passion lies in digging deep—uncovering both the scientific and the soulful layers of experience. I spend countless hours on the trails near my home and love sharing my relational forest-bathing practice with others. These multi-sensory encounters with nature become the foundation for my two- and three-dimensional works, intimate immersive landscapes that offer viewers a space for respite and recovery.

I live in Hope, Maine, a lovely little town just off the coast, an area we call ‘Midcoast’ which includes Camden, Rockport, and Rockland. It boasts beautiful coastal and woodland trails which I take full advantage of.

I am always open for collaboration and interchange. Feel free to send me a note!

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Support this work with a paid subscription, giving you access to video tutorials and a private chat where you can ask questions, discuss ideas, and ask for feedback. Behind the scenes sneak peeks, conversation, and community await.

Watch my Friday Feature Artist interview with Take Two Online Classes.

Read the review for the 2024 Rfotofolio Portfolio Awards.

Discover upcoming classes and workshops.

Mentoring sessions in photography, creativity, and paper sculpture are available on a per hour or per day basis, details available here.

For issues with tech on this sight or questions regarding a paid subscription email me at karen@karenolsonphotography.com

For questions regarding my process or techniques please subscribe to my paid Substack community.