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Claire Denarié-Soffietti
The Artist’s Inspirations:
Denarie’s works are profoundly influenced by the environments she’s lived in and the cultures she’s immersed herself in. Her time in various locations, from the lush landscapes of Barbados to the diverse landscapes of South Africa, has shaped both the visual and emotional language of her art. These influences, combined with her personal experiences of global displacement, have allowed her to produce work that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, encapsulating a universal essence in her contemporary art.
Nature, the changing seasons, and the fluidity of time often dictate Denarie’s moods and creativity. Her art vibrates with humor and wonder, sparking deep emotional resonance in those who encounter it. Each piece invites the viewer to explore a world of vivid colors and abstract forms that evoke more than they portray. As art writer Emilie Froment beautifully captures, Denarie’s work isn’t about specific depictions but rather an emotional evocation that brings an almost otherworldly quality to her subjects.
In her own words, Denarie embraces a fearless freedom in her art: “The more I yield to my vision, the more it seems to make sense. My freedom is joy. Even in sadness, love in color will prevail.” Her work celebrates both the absurd and the sublime, and she encourages viewers to embrace bold, unfiltered expressions of emotion and creativity: “Go big, go small, go tree, go home, go water, go absurd... do it all!”
About the Artist:
Claire Denarie-Soffietti, born and raised in Versailles, is a self-taught artist whose creative journey began without formal training. After spending eight years in Barbados and raising four children, she and her husband, an Italian architect, chose to settle in the serene Dolphin Coast of South Africa.
Denarie’s works have been showcased on an international stage, with exhibitions in locations such as the renowned Sandy Lane in Barbados, where her clientele included icons like Pavarotti and Cliff Richards, as well as the artistic streets of Chelsea, New York City. She has also displayed her pieces in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Montreal, where she earned the title of “Best International Emerging Artist of 2013.” Her works continue to be featured in publications such as Habitat Magazine, Top Billing, and House and Garden.
Her artistic journey has taken her across the Western Cape, from Franschhoek to Stellenbosch, Hermanus, and Cape Town. In 2014, she was featured in The Collector's Guide to Art and Artists in SA (3rd edition), published by The South African Institute of Artists & Designers.
Denarie's painting style evolves continuously, from quiet portraits and tranquil landscapes to vibrant depictions of pop culture figures like Charlie Chaplin and Coco Chanel. Her use of bold colors and tightly framed compositions creates dynamic pieces where the subjects always seem to withhold something from the viewer, hinting at an inner world of mystery and emotion.
