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Clare Schmehl

Born to Raise Hell

Born to Raise Hell

$840
$840
Sale Sold

A study in contrasts and identity, "Born to Raise Hell" builds upon an abstract foundation of fabric and charcoal circles before evolving into a playful yet thought-provoking exploration of self-perception. At the center, a vintage paper doll of Mikhail Baryshnikov is presented in two opposing forms - one clad in punk rebellion, the other in an ornate, ruffled suit - each representing a different facet of identity. The oversized, hand-drawn text "Who Am I?" hovers, amplifying the tension between external presentation and inner truth. Layers of textures and fragmented patterns further blur the lines between reality and performance, inviting viewers to reflect on the roles we adopt and the contradictions we carry.

Details

  • Type: Mixed media
  • Year: 2024
  • Material & Medium: Paper, charcoal, acrylic paint, fabric scraps, ink on canvas
  • Size: 17 x 21 x 1.5 inches (including frame)
  • Ready to Hang: Yes
  • Frame: Included
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About Clare Schmehl

Clare Schmehl is a San Francisco-based mixed media artist whose work captures the pulse of urban life with a gritty, nostalgic flair. Drawing inspiration from city walls, vintage ephemera, and everyday materials, her layered collages evoke a sense of history and human connection. Schmehl’s pieces often challenge societal expectations and celebrate individual resilience, blending elements from magazines, billboard posters, and found papers to explore themes of identity, love, and self-expression. Whether framing a still life with neon accents or juxtaposing bold graffiti with classical motifs, Schmehl’s art is a visual dialogue between the past and present, creating textured narratives that resonate with both playful charm and poignant introspection. Each piece is meticulously crafted, using torn fragments and hand-printed paper to build compositions that embody the dynamic beauty of the urban landscape and invite viewers to see the world through a fresh lens.

LOCATION:
San Francisco, CA

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