For architect, ceramic artist and founder of her own studio Sofia Karnukaeva transformation and adaptation take centre stage. Exploring the dynamic interplay between the ever-changing world and the birth of new forms with a keen focus on shape and material, Karnukaeva translates the abstract into the tangible, the intuitive into the sensory.

Karnukaeva’s ecological approach translates itself both in her artistic journey, driven by constant experimentation and direct interpretation of her own life experiences as they come into her life, as well as her view of her works and their meaning. For her, the works take on an open dialogue of their own with the viewer, and become something else through each interpretation, placing no resistance to the natural flow of the objects she creates and their natural life with the audience.

A limited series of Karnukaeva´s work will be on display at our Pop-Up Gallery exhibition from December 2nd to December 31st in Barcelona, to learn more about the event please click here.

What themes and ideas inspire you in your art?

KARNUKAEVA: At the moment, in my creative work, I am exploring the theme of adaptation. I'm interested in observing how the surrounding world and changes impact the birth of new forms.

What process of creating a work of art is most unique or important to you?

KARNUKAEVA: When creating objects, I pay a lot of attention to their shape and material. Through working with the form, I observe the world around me. In the shapes I create, I aim to translate the abstract into the tangible and the intuitive into the sensory.

KARNUKAEVA: I primarily work with stoneware, molding it to create objects using hand-sculpting techniques. Clay is my favourite material due to its transformative nature, enabling me to create objects in various scales while also being eco-friendly.

I occasionally integrate found natural elements into my work. I'm interested in exploring various new materials and techniques, such as 3D printing, collage, etc. Constant experimentation drives my creative process.

What materials, techniques or medium do you prefer to use in your artwork and why?

How do you see your style and creative approach evolving over time?

KARNUKAEVA: I plan to experiment more with scale and integrate new materials into my projects. Additionally, I aim to develop a series of functional objects that can be reproduced using 3D printing with eco-friendly materials.

What role do you see art playing in today's society?

KARNUKAEVA: Art opens up the opportunity for people to step beyond the ordinary, to see the world a bit differently, to contemplate the artist's intended message, and to formulate their own interpretations. After creation, each artwork begins to live its own life within the mind of every individual viewer. Engaging with art, we become a part of it. At times, art allows us to comprehend something new about the world and about ourselves.

How do your personal or life experiences influence your art?

KARNUKAEVA: My method of work is based on perceiving how changes in the surrounding reality influence the forms born in my imagination. For instance, a new project emerged precisely because I moved to another country, which profoundly changed me, making it impossible for me to create as I did before. This new project, to some extent, explores these transformations.

How do you evaluate the success or effect of your artwork on the audience?

KARNUKAEVA: If a piece of art sparks a viewer's desire to understand the artist's intent, arouses curiosity, or prompts their own associations, to me, that's a significant sign.

What challenges have you encountered in your creative process and how have you dealt with them?

KARNUKAEVA: One of my main challenges is the limited amount of time as, in addition to practicing art, I'm involved in architecture. I often find myself doubting my ideas, but showcasing my work provides valuable feedback that brings in new perspectives and directions. Additionally, it's crucial for me to change my surroundings, travel, continuously learn, attend art events, and engage with representatives of the art world to be a part of it.

Are there any special projects or works that you would like to highlight or share with the audience?

KARNUKAEVA: My latest project 'Nomad' is currently my favourite. I'm still conceptualising and developing this project and I want to create new objects on a larger scale. However, the project 'Genius Loci,' which I worked on previously, also interests me. I'm not working on it at the moment, but I might come back to it in the future.

What future projects or ideas do you plan to realise in your art?

KARNUKAEVA: I am interested in ecological themes, perhaps my next project will address this topic.

You can find out more about Sofia Karnukaeva on her Instagram.