Original works in oil & watercolour
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Collections
Seven bodies of work, each a world of its own. Select a collection to explore the full series.
The Artist
Karla Basanez Rivera was born and raised in Mexico City, where a deep curiosity about life and the natural world shaped her from an early age. She pursued that curiosity academically at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), one of Latin America's most distinguished universities, where she studied Veterinary Medicine.
Alongside her scientific studies, Karla immersed herself in the visual arts at the Academia de San Carlos — one of the oldest and most prestigious fine arts institutions in the Americas. There, under the studio guidance and personal tutelage of Professor Francisco de Santiago Silva, she developed her practice in painting and deepened her understanding of colour, form, and expression.
Her paintings reflect that unique formation — a rigorous eye trained to observe, and an artist's hand liberated to interpret. The works gathered here span themes of myth, nature, the human form, and the playful imagination that has always defined her vision.
In 1996, Karla embarked on an extraordinary journey to South East Asia and Japan, immersing herself in cultures with rich and ancient artistic traditions, learning and experimenting with local techniques like batik and ceramics. These years abroad became a period of deep self-education — absorbing new aesthetics, philosophies, and ways of seeing that left an enduring mark on her work.
In 2003 she returned to the Americas and today makes her home in Canada, where she continues to paint, explore, and create. There she has furthered her self-education at the Toronto School of Art, OCAD University, and the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), continuously expanding her practice and artistic vision.
Karla Basanez Rivera
Acquire a Work
If you have been moved by a particular work and would like to enquire about availability, pricing, or framing options, I welcome your message. All enquiries are handled personally and with the utmost discretion.
Works are offered unframed unless otherwise specified. Commissions are considered on a selective basis.
Words from Collectors
"The painting arrived beautifully and exceeded every expectation. It holds an extraordinary stillness — I find myself returning to it again and again."
Margaret O'Brien Private collector, Dublin
"Karla's work carries a quality of light I have not encountered in contemporary Irish painting. 'The Amber Hour' is the finest thing in our home."
James & Fiona Hartley Private collectors, London
"Acquired two works at the RHA annual exhibition and commissioned a third. The process was a pleasure from first enquiry to delivery. Warmly recommended."
Dr. Claire Rennick Collector, Cork
Leave a Note
If a work has found a place in your home or your life, I would be honoured to hear from you.
Get in Touch
For press, exhibition, or commission enquiries, please write directly. I read and respond to every message.