Artist Statement: Carina Claassens
Carina Claassens: Exploring Nature, Memory, and Empowerment
In my ceramic odyssey, I navigate the intersection of nature, recollection, and empowerment. My vessels are whispers of bold African memories, echoed in delicacy possible in ceramic. Femininity, the heartbeat of my work, takes form in the ethereal.
Each piece, a unique canvas of harmony, is meticulously shaped from raw clay. A union of functionality and aesthetic lures the soul. My "P.O.D.S" collection, a testament to life's resilience, beckons a journey of transformation.
"Cosmic Reverie" unveils stoneware galaxies, reflecting the cosmos's enigmatic dance. In "Empowerment in Clay," I raise my voice for #MyBodyMyChoice, shaping symbols of defiance and empowerment in the clay's soul.
Step into my world and unearth augmented realities in "CeramicAR," an interactive portal to my vision.
Thank you for joining me on this artistic journey. I hope that my ceramics bring joy and a renewed appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us all.
To learn more about my work and explore my portfolio, please visit my website: www.carinaclaassens.com.
Teaching, Studio website: www.claycafenederland.nl
Carina Claassens: Clay in Color and Conscience
Born amidst the vivid landscapes of South Africa, Carina Claassens is not just a ceramic artist but a vibrant voice for social change. From her formative years in South African and at the Tshwane University of Technology in Pretoria to her current endeavors in the Netherlands, Carina's journey has been a fusion of creativity and activism.
As the driving force behind Clay Café Nederland, Carina blends her love for clay with a deep-seated commitment to addressing social injustices. Inspired by her African heritage, her creations serve as poignant commentaries on the complexities of our world, challenging societal norms and advocating for change.
Drawing inspiration from her surroundings and the kaleidoscope of cultures that define her upbringing, Carina transforms clay into vibrant pop art pieces, each piece a testament to her unwavering dedication to activism through art. Each piece serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to bridging tradition with innovation, infusing age-old ceramic techniques with a contemporary flair.
From the streets of Amsterdam to galleries worldwide, her work sparks conversations and ignites passions, shining a light on pressing issues and inspiring action.
In a world hungry for both color and conscience, Carina Claassens stands as a beacon of artistic integrity and social responsibility, using clay as a medium for both expression and activism. At the Tshwane University of Technology to her current endeavors in the Netherlands,
where she has seamlessly woven her South African heritage into the fabric of her creative pursuits. Carina's journey has been a fusion of creativity and activism. Her work transcends mere craftsmanship, transcending the boundaries of culture and geography to evoke a universal sense of wonder and awe.
In a world where art serves as a mirror to the soul, Carina Claassens stands as a beacon of creativity and inspiration, reminding us all of the boundless potential that lies within the humble embrace of clay.
