Claire Louise
I am a graduate from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana with a degree in Art Education. During my time as an undergrad I was able to study abroad in Cortona, Italy where I was introduced to and fell in love with papermaking. It was at this time that I began to develop a studio practice and experiment with materials. I then interned at Hook Pottery Paper with papermaker and artist, Andrea Peterson during the following summer and winter. I strive to learn and collaborate with fellow artists and teachers and couldn't be more excited to start with the Peace Paper Project this spring. Currently, I am creating pen and ink drawings, making paper, teaching art, and practicing yoga.
I believe in art. It is a vital organ in the body of any well-rounded education. Like lungs taking a deep breath, art can be the calm during a hectic week or with fast, short inhales and exhales, it can be an exhilarating rush of ideas and expression. I have a strong passion for people and their physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health and my hope is that I can help heal and guide as many people as I can through art!
In 2014, Claire founded Zenith Art & Paper, which was a space that granted access to papermaking supplies, equipment, and education to people of all ages and experiences. Zenith has recently located to a private location, however, Claire continues to facilitate on-site papermaking and paper art workshops around the Chicago and Oak Park areas. She also currently teaches art at Mark Twain Elementary in Chicago.
Image Credits: All images were taken by or belong to the artist, Claire Reynes
Want more!? You can find me at these other places...
Claire at Peace Paper Project
Wandering Apprentice wordpress