Kai Clements : “My aim is to immerse the viewer within forces of nature, using colour, light, and movement to transport them through a journey.”

An interview about adventure, collaboration, and the transformative power of art

Kai Clements discusses the inspiration behind Spirited Away, the importance of collaboration, and how nature influences their creative process.

Kai Clements, the visionary behind Kai & Sunny, stands at the forefront of contemporary art with his mesmerizing acrylic paintings that capture the essence of exploration and self-discovery. Since graduating from the Epsom School of Art in Surrey, Clements has developed a unique style characterized by vibrant palettes and intricate, flowing lines that breathe life into each canvas. His works are not merely visual experiences; they invite viewers into a world where colour, texture, and movement tell profound stories of personal and universal journeys. With a remarkable ability to blend meticulous craftsmanship with spontaneous inspiration drawn from nature, Clements continues to push the boundaries of his artistic expression.

Kai Clements creates breathtaking works that seamlessly blend meticulous craftsmanship with vibrant expression, inviting viewers into a world of exploration and self-discovery.

In his latest exhibition, Spirited Away, held at the Corey Helford Gallery, Clements showcases over 25 new works that embody his most ambitious endeavour to date. This collection reflects a year-long creative process, highlighting his signature use of razor-thin coloured lines that pulse with energy and rhythm. Each piece resonates with a narrative of adventure and the beauty of embracing the unknown, encouraging viewers to embark on their own journeys of growth and introspection. Collaborating with renowned artists like Shepard Fairey and D*Face, Clements emphasizes unity and collective creativity, further enriching his dynamic portfolio. As we delve into this exclusive interview, we explore the inspirations and experiences that have shaped his latest works and his distinctive approach to art-making.

What specific experiences or moments from the past year have influenced the creation of your new works in “Spirited Away”?

The texture, shape and movement portray the message that persevering through challenges leads to joy, freedom, and peace. This is reflective of personal challenges and universal challenges in the world currently.

How do you balance your meticulous creative process with the spontaneous elements of inspiration that come from nature?

I gravitate towards natural elements that symbolise depth, beauty, constant change, and the undercurrent layers of emotion. My process is intricately layered and the paintings are inspired by my own documentation of nature and environments. The intricate process includes using vibrant colours and textures that create undertones of images and colour and shape to take on interpretations of what is unseen in the frequencies of nature.

Can you share more about the collaborative pieces with Shepard Fairey and D*Face? What was that process like for you?

Shepard Fairey, D*Face, are regular collaborators bringing together the idea of ‘Unity’ and enabling the artist to continually evolve and grow. Our styles are individual yet complementary and have developed over time alongside our friendships starting from a shared college experience between D*Face and Kai Clements and collaborating with Shepard Fairey since 2013.

In what ways do you feel your art serves as a medium for exploring themes of adventure and personal growth?

My aim is to immerse the viewer within the forces of nature, and use colour, light and movement to transport them through a journey. The pieces are open to interpretation.

How do you approach the use of colour and texture in your paintings to evoke emotion and movement?

Vibrant colours can evoke a sense of excitement, while muted tones might suggest introspection or melancholy. The lines in the works push and pull each other, as if caught in a state of flux, whilst others are free to flow and exude energy.

What role does sound play in the exhibition, particularly with the ambient soundtrack composed by Toydrum, and how does it enhance the viewer’s experience?

The soundtrack adds another layer to the atmosphere and evokes moods and feelings. The music and visual intertwine and feed each other.

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