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Today we’d like to introduce you to Carmen Carpena
Hi Carmen, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Carmen Carpena, an artist born and raised in Mexico, she always had a deep passion for art and painting. However, due to the economic challenges in her homeland, she was encouraged to pursue a different career path for a more stable future. Determined to follow the journey that God laid out for her, Carmen graduated from college and relocated to the United States, where she dedicated herself to family life.
It wasn’t until eight years ago, following the heartbreaking loss of a beloved family member, that she felt compelled to reignite her artistic spirit. In her grief, she found solace in painting, creating a heartfelt tribute to her dear cousin adorned with angel wings. This piece, titled “Today you try out your wings, fly with God,” struck a chord when shared on social media, quickly earning recognition and admiration, which encouraged her to continue her artistic journey.
In a relatively short time, Carmen’s realistic works began to make appearances in art exhibitions, showcasing her love for both realism and abstract styles. Her abstract pieces, characterized by chaotic yet captivating patterns, reveal her ability to find beauty and order in chaotic patterns where she extracts shapes, forms. Having spent decades away from creating art, Carmen transitioned into producing highly detailed, realistic commissioned pieces, which left little room for personal exploration or experimentation. Now, her recent abstract works represent that long-awaited phase of artistic freedom, allowing her to express herself without constraints. These pieces showcase her exceptional talent for transforming chaotic patterns into stunning artworks, revealing the beauty within disorder. This unpredictability not only captivates her but also resonates deeply with her audience, drawing them into her unique artistic process and vision.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Transitioning from primarily painting realism to embracing abstract art was not an easy journey for me. As an established artist known for my realistic works, I took a bold step by choosing to follow my heart instead of adhering to the expectations of others. Painting realism often felt constrictive, bound by rules, shapes, and forms, which turned my passion into something resembling a job.
Recognizing my need for artistic freedom, I made the decision to experiment with my style and explore my true identity as an artist. I allowed myself to create without the weight of worrying about negative criticism that often accompanies such a controversial approach. This newfound liberation has been essential in rediscovering my voice and vision, enabling me to express myself authentically through my art.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As an artist I have developed a distinctive style and creative process that often diverges from conventional norms. This unconventional approach can be seen as controversial, yet it also serves as a source of inspiration, allowing people to connect with the sense of freedom that permeates my work. The process of creating my pieces is just as significant as the final artwork itself, which is why I share so much about it.
I invite viewers to immerse themselves in the positive energy that it is created when I throw marbles coated with paint onto my canvas or paper. This interactive experience fosters a connection between us, allowing them to witness the spontaneity and authenticity inherent in my creations. I want them to appreciate the raw, unfiltered nature of my art.
When I create, I envision something beautiful and truthful. My passion drives me to transform these moments into art. While I understand that my style may not resonate with everyone, it brings me immense joy, and I hope it can inspire others to embrace their own artistic journeys.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
I believe perspective on life influences my art profoundly. I believe that even when working with a limited color palette and navigating the chaos of unplanned, messy patterns, we can still create something beautiful and harmonious, regardless of our circumstances. This reflects the essence of life itself. Often, we become blind to the beauty around us when faced with chaos, focusing instead on the negative aspects.
It’s essential to learn how to work with what we have and to maximize our potential. Taking action instead of merely complaining can lead to a more fulfilling life. My art exists because I made the conscious decision to create, regardless of the challenges in front of me. When I see the finished piece, I feel it was worth every effort.
I find beauty in uncertainty. My mind naturally organizes what is put in front of me. revealing underlying beauty. Each of my final pieces tells a story, and the process of creating them weaves in rich details that contribute to that narrative.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carpenaartpage?igsh=bmFjOHFxenFxMTN0
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086088323824&mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@carpenaartpage
Image Credits
All images belong to me.
