Episode Summary: In this episode of What's My Thesis, host Javier Proenza sits down with artist Clarisse Abelarde to discuss her artistic journey, the impact of technology on contemporary culture, and the realities of making a living as an artist. From her immigrant experience moving from the Philippines to the U.S. at 14 to navigating the competitive art world, Clarisse shares her insights on balancing creativity with financial stability, the significance of artist residencies, and the evolving nature of her work.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Clarisse’s early life and how being an immigrant shaped her artistic path

• The intense experience of Art Basel and its reflection on Miami’s cultural scene

• How technology, social media, and digital consumption influence contemporary identity and art

• The challenges of sustaining an art career while balancing jobs outside the field

• The importance of artist residencies and alternative career paths in the art world

• Insights into Clarisse’s figurative painting practice and her shift towards film-based imagery

Key Highlights:

• [00:00] Introduction and Clarisse’s background

• [07:00] The Art Basel experience and Miami’s cultural identity

• [17:00] Discovering art as a career path and transitioning from science to painting

• [32:00] The impact of technology on personal identity and perception

• [45:00] Navigating financial sustainability as an artist

• [59:00] The role of artist residencies and career growth

• [1:06:00] Clarisse’s current work and upcoming exhibitions

Upcoming Exhibitions & How to Connect:

• Clarisse has upcoming group and solo exhibitions at Rod Briggs Gallery, Sabbatical in Santa Monica, and potentially the U.S. Fisher Museum.

• Follow Clarisse on Instagram: @clarisse.artist

• Interested in a studio visit? Clarisse is based in Downtown L.A. – reach out via Instagram!

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