Karen Roze
Founding Artist & Gallery Director
Born in Castro Valley California in 1967, Karen was raised in the Bay Area. With a degree in fine art from California College of the Arts (formerly CCAC) and modest success as a muralist, painter and illustrator, Karen began tattooing in 1992, serving as an apprentice to Richard Cyr at Picture Machine in San Francisco. She opened Sacred Rose Tattoo in 1998. Karen is married to musician and author Christa Hillhouse and has two adult sons. She has resided in Berkeley since 1993.
Sacred Rose Tattoo studio also became an alternative art gallery when the business moved to Berkeley in 2006. The SR2 Gallery enjoyed local success with featured exhibits by Mark Mothersbaugh of DEVO, Jason Holley, Mark Bode, KRK Ryden, Fred Nocella, Patrushka, and Roze’s own solo exhibit in 2009 among others.
When the tattoo shop moved locations in 2018, the gallery closed. Since then Karen has worked tirelessly to rebuild a dedicated gallery space.
Being a tattooist for over 35 years while also painting regularly has confirmed a dedication to craftsmanship in the arts as well as the attention paid to interpersonal relationships between artist and client. Karen’s broad range of styles and kind, engaging personality contribute to an all around positive experience when you visit Sacred Rose Tattoo and become a dedicated client. For tattooing, Karen is booked by appointment only.
As the Director of Siren Art Gallery, Roze has dedicated herself to representing alternative fine artists and craftspeople, continuing the tradition of supporting local and international artists who value craft and social awareness in their work. Siren Art Gallery will also engage students in learning how to exhibit and sell their work to the public.
