Award winning portrait artist

Carla Sclanders' artistic journey is a testament to the power of passion and self-discovery. Born into an artistic family, she inherited the family's creative gene, which would shape her future in unexpected ways. While her formative years were spent in Zimbabwe, it was in South Africa where she received a distinction for matric art during her high school days.

However, life took a different turn as Carla's focus shifted towards the world of dance. Visual art took a backseat, but it was destined to make a triumphant return in her life.

 

In 2020, Carla, along with her husband and two young children, embarked on a new chapter of life in New Zealand. The COVID-19 lockdown brought about a serendipitous moment. Carla, who had always believed she couldn't draw people, decided to test her skills by attempting a portrait of her daughter from a photograph. To her astonishment, the results were not only impressive but also deeply encouraging.

This newfound confidence spurred Carla to explore her artistic talents further. She delved into the world of color pencils, finding a medium that resonated with her deeply. The control she experienced and the intricate details she could achieve with this medium ignited a passionate flame within her. Her journey of discovery extended to online resources, particularly YouTube, where she learned about materials, techniques, and the art of achieving specific results.

 

Carla's decision to share her artwork on social media, particularly Facebook, led to a wave of admiration and requests from people who wanted to own her creations. Thus, Carla's Creations was born, a side business that not only allowed her to pursue her passion but also supported her in acquiring art materials.

Over time, Carla expanded her repertoire, moving beyond portraits to capturing the beauty of wild animals, birds, and beloved pets. Her willingness to take on commissions further fueled the growth of her art business, and she envisions a bright future filled with artistic possibilities.

 

Carla's faith plays a central role in her artistic journey. A devout Christian, she views her artistic talent as a divine gift. She strives to use this gift to glorify God and often incorporates meaningful Bible verses into her original artworks, infusing them with spiritual significance.

 

In recognition of her burgeoning talent and dedication, Carla has already received two prestigious awards in her relatively short art career. The certificate of merit from the Luxembourg Art Prize and the premier award at the Estuary Arts Centre members merit awards are just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and fruitful artistic journey.

Carla's story exemplifies how art can be a path of self-discovery, passion, and unexpected success. Her artworks not only reflect her talent but also carry the essence of her faith, making them even more profound and meaningful. We invite you to explore Carla's creations and be a part of her journey into the world of art.