“Art is how I make sense of the world.
When you see one of my pieces, you’re seeing a part of my soul.”
-Claire Huntington
Calgary-based media artist and painter, Claire Huntington, merges traditional art with sustainability, giving new life to discarded items. Also known as “cbearhuntington”, she specializes in painting skate decks and unconventional objects, breaking free from traditional boundaries and taking art "off the canvas."
Claire's artistic journey is driven by a profound passion for self-expression and forging connections through art. With a foundation established through years of experimentation in sketchbooks, her artistic pursuits began in her thirties.
Inspired by the beauty of nature, human emotions, and the mysteries of the world, she seeks to capture these experiences in her creations. Whether it's a vibrant galaxy landscape, thought-provoking abstract composition, pop art piece, or realistic portrait, her aim is to evoke deep emotional responses and foster a sense of connection with viewers.
Throughout her artistic evolution, Claire has explored diverse styles and approaches, continuously pushing the boundaries of creative expression. Embracing versatility, she embarks on an eternal quest for self-discovery, always in search of new artistic frontiers.
Claire's art reflects a delicate intertwining of imagination and reality, dreams and memories. Each piece tells a unique story, inviting viewers to engage with their personal interpretations and fostering intimate dialogues between the artwork and its beholder. She believes that art transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, nurturing universal understanding and appreciation for the human experience.
Committed to sharing her art with a wider audience, she actively participates in exhibitions, collaborative projects, and community initiatives. Her goal is to ignite spirited conversations and inspire others through her creative endeavors.
Ultimately, Claire aspires to make a lasting impact with her art, evoking profound emotions and offering fresh perspectives on the world. With every brushstroke, pencil line, and paint drip, she aims to leave behind a legacy steeped in boundless creativity and unwavering passion.
She pursued her artistic education at the Alberta College of Arts and Design, specializing in media arts and digital technologies. She then went on to obtain a Bachelor of Interior Design from Mount Royal University. Although she specialized in chalk pastels in highschool and hadn’t done any art since her teens, the pandemic prompted Claire to start chasing her art dreams. This was the first time that she would delve into teaching herself how to paint, continuously honing her skills and immersing herself in this medium.
Integrating sustainability is a defining aspect of Claire’'s artistic practice. She repurposes and transforms discarded objects, shedding light on the beauty and value found in society's waste. This unconventional approach allows her to infuse her art with deeper meaning, bridging the gap between artistic expression and environmental consciousness.