Interview with Artist

Three questions to Claudia de La Hoz

22 Nov 2024

Claudia de La Hoz (b. 1979, Colombia) is a visual artist based in Paris.

After moving to France to complete her postgraduate studies in art history, interior design and textile design, she devoted herself to painting full-time from 2021, working in her studio in the 14th arrondissement of Paris. In 2023, she founded a collective to further develop her artistic vision.

Her work sits at the intersection of expressionism, magic realism and neo-fauvism, using nature as a lens to explore broader existential questions.

Claudia’s Colombian heritage infuses her palette with pastels reminiscent of the sunsets of her hometown in Barranquilla and vibrant greens and blues reflecting the region’s lush landscapes.

In a world where stress is omnipresent, her art becomes an oasis of rejuvenation, offering comfort and respite.

Discover her profile

Could you tell us more about your background and what led you to become an artist?

I have a background in Interior design and textile design. I studied and worked on these fields more than 15 years before deciding to be 100% a visual artist. For me, the idea of becoming an artist had never crossed my mind. It is only during Covid that the idea came to me, and then further developed slowly and quietly. Since this revelation, I decided to follow my intuition and inspiration and created 60 artworks in less than 6 months. This series is called “The Secret Gardens” (2021). These works are very important to me, as they helped me channel my inner turmoil at the time. Whilst I was creating, I was also exploring and learning about the human brain and neuroscience for the purpose of better understanding and taking control of my emotions, which helped me a great deal to heal from depression. From this moment, I decided to dedicate my whole time to painting and teaching.

What are the biggest challenges you encountered during your journey as an artist?

I find the most challenging part of this journey is to gain acceptance from fellow artists, especially those who have studied Arts and Beaux-Arts at prestigious institutions or who have already established themselves in the field. At times, I feel a lingering pressure to work even harder to truly earn the title of "Artist" in their eyes.

Can you tell us a few words about your “Use Your Brain” project?

Four years ago, I made the decision to step out of my comfort zone, challenge societal norms, and give myself permission to create and live the fulfilling life I both desire and deserve. This is what led me to learn more about neurosciences and the effects of our thoughts on our emotions. Eventually, I created the "Use Your Brain Project" to help anyone transform their life if they truly desire it, by leveraging techniques inspired by neuroscience and meditation, with painting serving as the ultimate medium of expression. I offer this programme to anyone who wants to know themselves better in order to reprogramme their thoughts and change the way they live. These workshops can take place either in my studio or in other locations, on demand.