Carmen Clews

sculptor and Visual artist

My approach to art-making has

changed over time. Often, it’s been a rollercoaster journey; some days have been pure joy while others have been frustrating. I’m learning to embrace whatever shows up in my process as a gift.

Recently, I’ve been delving into abstract expressionism, which has shifted how I approach my work in terms of playing more and holding back or being judgemental less. I approach it with abundance, and now I see my studio and my personal life as a playing field. Creating without fear is liberating, and once you realise there are no mistakes in art-making, you’re free to express yourself authentically. Trusting the process means electric energy can show up in art.

My constant inspiration comes from the tools that have contributed to my personal growth in life. These tools involve the practices of yoga, breath work, tantra and biodanza dance, opening me up to the experience of gratitude, wisdom, healing and happiness. I find the human journey through life fascinating, and I love sharing it through my art as a reminder of how amazing we, as living beings, are and what a gift life is.

My process has recently transformed quite radically. In the past, I’d start with a theme that captured what I wanted to say, and then

I’d develop a body of work around that theme. For example, with my previous pieces, I wanted to convey the magic of letting go of control and surrendering to what life has to offer, so I sculpted and painted images of people doing just that. It was only when I concentrated on abstract expressionism that I realised my work isn’t about visually representing other people letting go, but rather it’s about me letting go.

Now, my process is more a surrender to brush strokes and handing over to the outcome. For the past few years, I’ve explored the theme of transcending ego and the tools and practices that help us do that. When we quieten our busy minds, surrender, and let go of old beliefs, we make room for calm, healing and bliss. I’ve been working with the theme of miraculous expression.

My pieces are a reminder that despite the challenges we often face if we stop, look and breathe, we remember what a miracle life is. As we heal our past traumas and wounds and learn to develop and use healthy tools for dealing with life, I’d love to think our expression of art might represent less human pain and suffering, and more joy and appreciation of each other and life.