Let’s Talk. Carolina Queiroz Cunha
We invited Carolina Queiroz Cunha, artist and interior designer to talk to us about her work and what inspires her.
This is the first Q&A in a new series for our reading material, sharing with you a community of makers and creators that we admire. We first discovered Carolina through Instagram and instantly felt drawn towards her raw, nature inspired, serene style of work. We are excited to invite her to be a part of our community.
“ the future holds what I cultivate today. ”
Carolina, are you originally from Portugal?
Yes, I am Portuguese born and raised in Lisbon.
How would you describe the art scene in Lisbon?
Highly diverse. We have amazing street artists and plastic artists. Lisbon is such a beautiful and picturesque city. Anyone can find inspiration and art in each corner and hill of the city of light.
How do you define your style of art and how has it developed?
As an interior designer, I’m constantly looking for different pieces. I love texture and have a very creative way of thinking. I had this idea for a canvas artwork, with neutral tones and filed with texture. Whenever I can’t find what I have in mind, I create it and that’s how my art began.
Who are your biggest influences?
I really admire the work of Constantin Brancusi and Isamu Noguchi. I also admire the aesthetics of Athena Calderone and Kelly Wearstler. (click on the names to check out their work)
What are your biggest influences?
Coastal nature, it's fauna and flora. There’s something about it that mesmerises me.
The texture in your work is stunning. How do you start your creative process?
Unless the pieces are commissioned with a specific request, I don’t plan them. I work intuitively and just let myself go along with the process. What I love the most about my work is telling a story through art. I hint the story through the name of the piece and give space for the viewers to see it through a self interpretation.
Tell us what your average day in the studio looks like?
I rarely have two equal days. I usually do the executive side of my work during the first half of the day and work on my art and commissions in the later afternoon and end of the day. I believe that my rational side of the brain works best in the am and the creative in the pm, haha.
Your style of art looks like it could be a very meditative process. Do you find this is the case or is your art just making us feel relaxed?
I do. Many of my pieces of artwork are created at the end of the day, into night. Sometimes I think to myself “wow, this work after work feels really good.” It’s like as a way of disconnecting from the stresses of the day.
What is your dream project?
From designing the interiors of a sustainable boutique hotel to having my art showcased in a New York gallery and the million possibilities in between. A big mural is also on my short-term goals list. Despite all, I put as much work and effort in to each project I embrace.
Where is your most inspirational place?
The beach. The ocean has a calming effect on me, it truly inspires my art and gives me clear vision whenever I’m looking for inspiration.
How does it make you feel when you see your own art in people's homes?
I often hear from clients that the artwork I create brings them a lot of peace and serenity. I feel that my work has been complete when my art has the same effect in the viewer that it has in me. A way of disconnecting from the fast paced world.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given as an artist?
Believe in your work and trust your intuition. In order for others to appreciate your work, you must fall in love with it first.
What is next for you?
The future holds what I cultivate today. I believe that we build our own luck and create room for new opportunities by working in the path towards our goals.
