Karen “Francesca” James is a modern abstract painter with showings in Santa Fe and Dallas galleries. She has a broad range of artistic styles and signs her work under her middle name “Francesca.”

In addition to being an accomplished artist, she is an award-winning former journalist, public relations consultant and inspirational speaker. Karen travels the country speaking on surviving tragedy and loss in hopes of inspiring others who are facing difficult times. Karen was married to Kelly James, one of the climbers who tragically died atop Mount Hood in 2006. She is also the author of “Holding Fast: The Untold Story of the Mount Hood Tragedy.” She lives in Dallas and shares her life with her four stepchildren, family and friends.

For more information on Karen James visit www.jamesrelations.com