“Nature never ceases to enchant me” – Gunilla Klemendz.
WAS THERE A PIVOTAL MOMENT WHEN YOU DECIDED TO FOLLOW YOUR PATH AS AN ARTIST?
As a child, my favorite thing to do was draw and paint. But it was not until 25 years ago, when I came in contact with clay and sculpturing, that I understood the mental impact art had on my well-being, and that was when I decided to follow the path of art.
Art helps me process the difficult paths of life and works in a meditative way to heal hurtful experiences.
CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR WORK FOR US?
My art crosses the border between reality and fantasy by using mainly strong and vibrant colors. I provoke viewers using vivid colors.
Nature is fundamental in my art and especially leaves. I am passionate about leaves. They are one of nature’s wonders, beautiful and magnificently shaped. I will never get tired of studying leaves, the core shape in many of my pieces.
WHAT DOES YOUR WORK AIM TO SAY?
I want to spread happiness! To find something unexpected hidden underneath a fallen leaf, to smile and feel the joyous power of happy lovely colors smiling back at you.
HOW DO YOU THINK YOUR WORK FITS WITHIN SOCIETY IN OUR PRESENT TIME?
In today’s world, I think we need happy colors combined with the healing powers of nature as antidote.
“Sleeping Beauty” Stoneware by Gunilla Klemendz.
WHEN LOOKING BACK, WHAT ARTWORKS COME TO MIND THAT MOST RELATE TO YOUR LIFE STORY?
There are several, but two are very special to me. One that I made with my daughter when she was sick. It is a blue sculpture filled with spirits and angels. And the one in the picture below is called “In my dreams.”
WHO ARE YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCES?
I love the french impressionist Giacometti, the sculptor. The Swedish painter Nils von Dardel.
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS?
If I can choose, I don’t want to calculate in advance. I just let the feelings and colors come out in the creative moment. It’s like a soothing state of mind.
WHAT VISUAL REFERENCES DO YOU DRAW UPON IN YOUR WORK?
I find inspiration during long walks by the Baltic Sea and in the woods of Småland. Also, people that I have met have made an impression on me.
ANY UPCOMING PROJECTS?
Exhibitions at Easter time in Skane, Sweden.