Clare Hassell

Columbia, SC

Art and creativity are important aspects of my identity, a big way to express myself, and I would not be myself without them. I was in middle school when I received my first art set, which marked the beginning of my creative journey. I often found myself losing track of time while coloring, painting, or drawing. Art has always allowed me to express myself in ways I would not be able to convey using words. While I can express my views and opinions in conversation, I sometimes fall short of portraying the depth of my emotions. During quarantine, I would be secluded in my room, with no one to talk to. Since I had no one to share my thoughts and feelings with, I turned to painting and creating to express my emotions. One of the most captivating qualities of my art is its ability to portray strong emotions. For example, my paintings convey my feelings of joy, sorrow, rage, and nostalgia without the need for verbal explanation. I use art as a form of therapy, expressing my problems, tragedies, and joys via my work. This approach has not only helped me with my self-discovery and healing, but it also allows those who view my art to empathize with and understand my feelings through visual storytelling, fostering resonance and empathy across a wide range of experiences and backgrounds. Furthermore, my art allows room for individual interpretation and meaning-making, offering a personal connection to my work.