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Carolina Amaya (1981) is a contemporary artist, currently residing in Berlin.
Through her artistic practice, Amaya's work explores the idea of transformation in the mental programming of the belief system that governs society, seeking to dismantle the patriarchal fantasies that have been ingrained in our societies for centuries. By exploring the intersection of colonialism, identity, culture, terror, healing, and sensuality, she creates a new narrative that celebrates the beauty of the human body, and its desires, allowing the expression of it to be hairy, voluptuous, erotic, and bold. Her work is a testament to the power of self-love, self-acceptance, and liberation from societal norms, inspiring viewers to engage with their inner selves and explore the depths of their sensuality and desires.
Amaya's artistic expression is deeply rooted in her Latin American heritage, and her work expresses the rich cultural diversity of her native Colombia blended with the experience of living in Berlin. Therefore, she assembled organic materials, such as Bijao tree leaves, handcrafted textiles, coconut fibers, human hair, and raw fique that serve as a nod to her ancestral roots and a celebration of the natural world, in contrast with fetish and kinky materials such as leather, chains, from the erotic scene.
The incorporation of these materials into her multidisciplinary approach, large-scale drawings, sculpture, large-scale installations, and storytelling, disrupt the dominant discourse, challenging the oppressive systems that have silenced marginalized voices for too long. Her art catalyzes critical thinking, encouraging the viewer to question the status quo and embrace the ramifications of human experience. By juxtaposing these contrasting elements, Amaya's art pieces spark a dialogue between tradition and contemporary, exploring the complexities of identity, and cultural hybridity. Her use of natural materials serves as a tribute to her indigenous heritage, while the incorporation of fetish materials challenges societal norms and conventions, encouraging the viewer to question the boundaries between intimacy and public display.
By embracing the contradictions and paradoxes of her cultural background, Amaya's art becomes an act of resistance, a declaration of independence from the constraints of societal expectations. Her work is a beacon of hope, inspiring a new generation of thinkers, artists, and activists to reimagine a world where diversity is celebrated, and individuality is cherished. As a powerful tool for social change, Amaya's art reminds us that true transformation begins with the courage to challenge, question, and reimagine the world around us.
She has an extensive exhibition activity in Berlin, showcasing her work in notable galleries such as AtelierHof Berlin (2023) Zwitschermaschine Galerie (2018), Lite Haus Gallery (2019), FoYou (2019-2022), Z22 Gallery (2021), Game Over NFT Museum Berlin (2022), VBK Gallery (2021-2022) and AtelierHof (2023) She has also participated in several group exhibitions at prestigious venues, including KaDeWe Berlin, Oberpollinger Munich, and Alsterhaus Hamburg (2021). In addition to her gallery exhibitions, Amaya has also created several urban interventions in cities such as Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and her hometown of Bogotá. In 2016, she was the first Colombian artist to become a member of VBK (Verein Berliner Künstler) Berlin.
Amaya's artistic training includes studying Audiovisual Media in Bogotá, arts extension at the National University of Colombia, completing postgraduate studies in Morphology at UBA University in Argentina, diploma in erotica and politics Taller Multinacional Mexico, art residency at the Berlin Art Institute in Berlin, she is currently pursuing a diploma in colonialism, history, and culture.
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Carolina Amaya also shares her insights and experiences as a speaker at various events, corporations, and universities. Her speaking topics cover many subjects, including the inspiration, creative process, and meaning behind her artwork, her journey as an artist, personal development, and transformation. She also discusses turning emotions such as fear, shame, and guilt into positive and empowering strength.