Clara Nartey

Sometimes, it is hard to show you all that I’ve been doing in my art practice. Some of the activities do not result in the creation of new works. Only a percentage of my everyday practice results in finished artworks. So, it’s a thrill to be able to share new work with you.

Free Spirit, the title of this new piece that I want to share with you is part of my ongoing series, “The Joy of Living“. This series is my personal response to the once-in-a-lifetime event of surviving the pandemic. I’ve got plans to create more pieces of works for this series. The joy the works in the series have brought to me is indescribable. Moreover, when I see those same sentiments reflected in the faces of viewers, I know I made the right decision in following my heart. This series is as much about celebrating life as it is about a newfound awareness of our collective mortality.

Textile Art by Clara Nartey | Embroidery Art | Art Quilts | Quilted Portrait | Thread Art | Fiber Art | Free Machine Embroidery
Free Spirit (detail), 2023, Inks and Threads on Cotton, 40″x30″

“Free Spirit”, seeks to capture the joy of following your heart. Additionally, it’s about being comfortable that you aren’t like everyone. Free spirits take risks, chart new paths, and show the rest of the world what is possible. In my journey of finding the joy of living, I celebrate Free Spirits because they dare to do what people can only dream of. The joy of being authentic is pure joy.

Free Spirit by Clara Nartey | Textile Art | Art Quilts | Quilted Portrait | Thread Art | Fiber Art
Free Spirit (detail), 2023, Inks and Threads on Cotton, 40″x30″

The way I see it,

A Free Spirit is a person who's not trying to be the next someone. They are trying to be the first someone.
Free Spirit by Clara Nartey | Textile Art | Art Quilts | Quilted Portrait | Thread Art | Fiber Art | Embroidery Art | Free Machine Embroidery | Fibre Art
Free Spirit, 2023, Inks and Threads on Cotton, 40″x30″

That doesn’t mean they’re doing something that hasn’t been done before. Maybe they’re not. However, it does mean they strive to do something that has not been done their way before.

For all the Free Spirits out there – this is for you. You light the path.

Discover more artwork here.

Warmly,

Clara's Signature

PS: Now, I invite you to share your thoughts or experiences related to being a free spirit or following your heart in the comments below.