Sète portrait jaune (2022) Printmaking by Clara Castagné

Clara Castagné is a contemporary French artist, born in 1968 in Tarn, France. She pursued her artistic education at the prestigious Beaux-Arts de Toulouse and Beaux-Arts de Nîmes, studying under the renowned Alain Clément. Castagné's unique style draws inspiration from modern masters such as Fernand Léger, Matisse, and Picasso, with her work being featured in both public and private collections.

Her art primarily revolves around themes of family life, mythology, and the human body. Castagné’s characters, often depicted with curvaceous forms reminiscent of Léger's iconic figures, come to life on unconventional surfaces like geographical and anatomical school maps. These nostalgic backdrops, once familiar during childhood, give her work an added layer of narrative and emotional depth.

Throughout her career, Clara Castagné has formed meaningful artistic connections with painters like Cristof Yvoré, Christophe Curien, and Michel Lablais. Her work demonstrates a conscious break from the academic norms and the "Support Surface" movement, which was popular during her time at the Beaux-Arts in Nîmes.

Known for her figurative ink drawings, Castagné delves into the complexities of human interiority, crafting intricate portraits of emotional and physical life. For Clara, painting and design are a lifelong journey, where each piece is an exploration of human nature and storytelling.

• Nationality: FRANCE
• Date of birth : 1968
• Artistic domains: Represented by a Gallery,
• Groups: Contemporary French Artists Artists presented by a gallery