Meet Karen Brodie Archibald

Karen is a liturgical artist from B.C. who has been creating vibrant, spirit-filled fabric art for churches for over 30 years. From seasonal vestments to altar banners, her work brings sacred spaces to life around the globe (recently as far as Italy!) Her art is known for its flowing lines that reflect the movement of the Spirit.

Answering a call to create.

Karen’s path to a career making liturgical fabric art began with a diploma in fashion design at the Phyllis Herndl College of Fashion 1988-89. Early jobs, pattern drafting, cutting and sewing in small factories, brought Karen to the technique of fabric appliqué. Self employment with these skills began in 1991 in Vancouver, B.C. with custom dressmaking, and the beginning of liturgical (church) art as Karen applied her new skills of fabric appliqué. Her life-long involvement in church, as well as a stint as a youth ministry worker, brought her to the intersection of these two passions.

For more than a quarter of a century from her studio in rural Golden, B.C., Karen’s sole work has been producing liturgical fabric art. This work has led to a large portfolio, being commissioned by churches and individuals of many Christian denominations across the continent and beyond. This includes hundreds of clergy and deacon stoles, vestments, altar sets, and banners large and small. View more of Karen's work here.

Now in 2025, Karen is dedicating the whole year to bringing all 14 Stations to life in fabric appliqué - a monumental undertaking for 12 months! Each design, now completed, is inspired by a reflection and prayer from one of 14 diverse, international, ecumenical clergy, personally invited by Karen. The result is a deeply moving and inclusive spiritual experience. Even during early tours and showings of the sketches, participants from all spiritual backgrounds have found the art powerful and meaningful.

Karen’s hope is that this artwork will speak to everyone, wherever they are on their spiritual journey.