Clara Nartey

The opening reception at Yale University for their permanent installation of my works was beautiful. Whenever people ask me about it, I find myself using the word “beautiful” to describe the event. The truth is, I don’t know any other word that captures the atmosphere, the people, and the conversations, as well as the word “beautiful” does. It was simply a beautiful opening reception.

Clara Nartey’s Joy of Living installation at Yale University School of Management

It’s taken me a while to sit down to write about it. Let me try and explain the feeling. There’s this adrenaline rush that builds up in the days leading up to an event like the beautiful opening we had at Yale. Then, when it’s all over, it’s a gentle descent from that high – back to normalcy. In some ways, it’s the same kind of feeling you get with a sugar high.

Beautiful opening reception at Yale University | Yale SOM Artsy Fund | Clara Nartey
Guests at beautiful opening at Yale School of Management

Gratitude Abounds

I’m thankful to everyone who attended the opening. It wouldn’t have been a success without all of you. There were so many people present that I worried I wouldn’t get to say hi to each one of you. If I didn’t get to spend much time with you, please forgive me. Just know that I appreciate your support for me and and my work.

Beautiful opening reception at Yale University | Yale SOM Artsy Fund | Clara Nartey
Hallway in Evans Hall building at Yale SOM where The Joy of Living is installed

For the first time, I got to see my work, “All Lit Up,” framed and hanging at this beautiful opening. It was placed all the way at the end of the hallway. I’d previously seen the others but not “All Lit Up”. Seeing my works on the walls of Yale SOM filled me with pride. Moreover, the stories from students, faculty, and staff whose experiences were already impacted by these works just warmed my heart.

Permanent Signage

Permanent signage for the Joy of Living Exhibition at Yale University School of Management | Clara Nartey
Permanent signage for the Joy of Living Exhibition at Yale University

The Power of Art

Art has always had a remarkable ability to transcend the barriers that divide us and connect people from different walks of life. Whether through the strokes of a paintbrush, the melody of a song, or the fibers of textiles, art has the power to evoke emotions, spark dialogue, and foster a sense of unity.

When you attend a beautiful art opening like this one we had at Yale, you witness this incredible power in action. The walls of art become a canvas where diverse perspectives converge, offering glimpses into the artist’s soul and the collective human experience. As you walk through the exhibit, each of my artworks has a unique story to tell, inviting you to reflect, question, and engage.

Artist Reception at Yale SOM | Clara Nartey | Beautiful Opening reception
Beautiful Reception at Yale SOM

But it is not just the individual artist who holds this power; it is the collective energy of the audience that amplifies it. When we gather at an art opening, we bring our own experiences, perspectives, and emotions into the space. We become part of a shared narrative, where the boundaries that typically separate us begin to dissolve. Conversations spark, connections form, and ideas are exchanged, fostering a sense of community and understanding.

Clara Nartey speaking at Yale School of Management Artsy Fund event
Clara Nartey speaking at Yale School of Management

Thank you all for coming and for making this opening reception plus unveiling event such a grand one. Here’s to making more art that transcends boundaries!!!

Read more about this installation on Yale SOM’s website.

Clara Nartey with her artwork "Dancing Queen in Little Accra" at Yale SOM
Clara Nartey with her artwork “Dancing Queen in Little Accra” at Yale SOM

Warmest regards,

Clara's Signature