Published 12 July 2024 in Media Blogs
Press Release
International Artist Carmen Clews Brings ‘Bound to Boundless’ Shibari-Inspired Art Exhibition to Pretoria
Visual
artist and sculptor Carmen Clews is set to showcase her solo collection, “Bound
to Boundless” in Pretoria this winter. Following its captivating debut in
Cape Town, where it garnered significant interest and curiosity, the exhibition
delves into the intricate and evocative art of Shibari, a Japanese rope tying
practice.
‘Bound
to Boundless’ is a compelling display of Clews’ multimedia art and sculptures,
exploring themes of vulnerability, communication, trust and deep surrender. The exhibition is designed to challenge
and inspire viewers through its intricate and profound interpretations of
Shibari.
A News24 journalist who attended the Cape Town opening remarked “Attending
Bound to Boundless was truly unforgettable. Carmen Clews’ artistic exploration
of Shibari transcended mere aesthetics, delving deep into the realms of
vulnerability, trust and liberation. The exhibition seamlessly integrated
sculptures, paintings and poetry to create a multi-sensory journey of
self-discovery”.
The
exhibition will be on public display at The Viewing Room Art Gallery from 13
July to 13 August, offering a unique opportunity to view and purchase limited-edition
sculptures, oil and mixed-media paintings, poetry and photography.
Carmen Clews elaborated on the inspiration behind her work, stating: “The emphasis is around Shibari being a meditative and healing practice that offers a path to release old stories and fears that no longer serve us.” The artist was keen to add, “The art of Shibari is a much-misunderstood practice, sometimes thought of as the shadow side of BDSM - as an opposed to an exquisite art of letting go.”
Exhibition
Details:
Dates
– July 13th – August 13th 2024
Venue:
The Viewing Room Art Gallery
Address:
492 Fehrsen Street, Brooklyn Circle, Pretoria
Contact: Sammy – art@stlorient.co.za 0662742094/0825794466
Artist Biography
Carmen Clews is
a Cape Town based sculptor and visual artist whose artwork is endlessly
inspired by her passion for understanding that there is more to life than meets
the eye. Clews explores the mystery and miracles of life within her work and
uses holistic and physical practices to enrich her immersive studio practice
and to grow her capacity for more surrender and vulnerability, leading to a
deeper embrace of joy.
Carmen’s sculptures can be
found throughout South Africa, London, Dubai and France including the esteemed
art collection of film producer Arnon Milchan who ranks in the top three of
Hollywood contemporary art collectors. Her various works have been exhibited at
Grande Provence and Art in the Yard Galleries in Franschhoek, MOK Gallery in
Stellenbosch and Knysna Fine Art Gallery.