CREATIVITY EXPLORED, A Journey of Inspiration

Exhibition - Creativity Explored, A Journey of Inspiration,
April Pierce & Chloe Owens

Cutler Crane Contemporary

Exhibition Ongoing

CREATIVITY EXPLORED

"A Journey of Inspiration”

Chloe Owens

April Pierce

CREATIVITY EXPLORED
A Journey of Inspiration

Creativity Explored: A Journey of Inspiration celebrates the remarkable solo works of Memphis artists Chloe Owens and April Pierce, two gifted creatives who have spent the past year immersed in a transformative studio residency at the Cutler Crane Gallery & Studios. This exhibition serves as a testament to their dedication, growth, and exploration as artists.

Chloe and April each embarked on deeply personal creative journeys, guided by the studio space, and mentorship provided during their residency. Their work reflects the unique voices they have honed and the inspiration they have drawn from both their surroundings and their inner worlds. Through their distinct styles and mediums, these two artists invite us to explore the stories, emotions, and perspectives that have shaped their artistic identities.

For Chloe Owens, art became a sanctuary and a means of survival. "My artistic practice was birthed from my struggle with major depression. As the world tried to crush me into an unrealistic, perfectionist box, I turned to canvas, acrylic paint, and paint pens for release and rebuilding." But Chloe’s work doesn’t just reflect her challenges; it radiates hope and joy. "It’s through my work that I found confidence and acceptance of who I am. Now I make bold, loud abstract paintings to match my big personality and to spread joy, happiness, and a message of embracing who you are with the world." Her vibrant pieces are a celebration of self-love and resilience.

For April Pierce, the act of drawing herself from a mirror became a ritual of observation and discovery. "Daily sketchbook drawings of myself from a mirror are the basis of my self-portrait drawings. These small, quick studies are the result of observation and improvisation. Certain self-imposed limits in the ongoing practice result in accurate likenesses mixed with imperfections and distortions. The goal of the finished drawings is to introduce intention to a practice fueled entirely on chance and surprise." Her work challenges the boundaries between precision and spontaneity, inviting viewers to experience the beauty in imperfection.

This exhibition is more than a culmination of a residency—it is a celebration of the creative process itself. Chloe and April's works embody the courage it takes to push boundaries, embrace vulnerability, and transform ideas into tangible expressions.
This exhibition invites you to not only witness the artistic journeys of these two incredible artists, but also to embark on your own exploration of self-reflection and inspiration. May these works challenge and uplift you, sparking a deeper connection to the art, the artists, and your own personal narrative.

We are thrilled to share this journey with you and hope it inspires your own creative exploration.

Marina Cutler, Owner, Curator & Project Maker
Cutler Crane Contemporary
Avenue Art Group