Contrast and connection Painting

Carla Raads is an international contemporary artist working from her studio in Northwest England, whose artistic journey intertwines personal transformation with the raw power of nature. Her formal training combines fine art foundation studies and photography, enriched by an apprenticeship under Philippe Aird of Hulme—a direct artistic lineage to the renowned L.S. Lowry. Born along the dramatic Eastern Cape coast of South Africa, Raads' early connection with the ocean's rhythms and coastal landscapes continues to pulse through her work, informing her unique artistic vocabulary. Carla's distinctive artistic voice emerged from a profound personal journey, when she began painting seascapes with her bare hands—a technique that would become her signature. This visceral approach to creating art, born from an intuitive need to transfer energy directly onto canvas, evolved into a sophisticated practice that now encompasses oils, mixed media, and various tools, though direct contact with the canvas remains integral to her process. Her work explores the complex dialogue between human emotion and natural phenomena, particularly evident in her current focus on floral studies and her recurring exploration of circular forms—motifs that echo both celestial bodies and cellular structures. In 2023, Carla Raads' artistic expression garnered international recognition when she was named a "Driven by Dreams" ambassador by Porsche, celebrating her innovative approach to contemporary art. Her work has been showcased in exhibitions in Europe, including two successful shows at the Jumeirah Hotel in Sóller, Mallorca. These achievements reflect the growing appreciation for her ability to capture the dynamic interplay between human experience and natural forces. Carla has established herself as an emerging voice in contemporary art, with a devoted following of collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Her work investigates the patterns and rhythms found in nature, translated through a sophisticated understanding of color and form. Whether exploring turbulent seascapes or delicate florals, her paintings invite viewers to contemplate their own relationship with the natural world, while her unique technique and artistic philosophy continue to push the boundaries of her contemporary artistic expression.