Featured Artist: SO KLARA: Ground Floor Gallery

Klara Hinde is a multi-disciplinary artist and designer currently living and working in Glasgow and working under the name SO KLARA. She became a member of Glasgow Print Studio in 2022 where she has been developing her interest in monoprinting. Her designs draw on self-expression through the medium of abstract art, utilizing bold colours and strong dynamic shapes.

"Just Play is a series of artworks capturing my exploration of monoprinting. I was introduced to the technique here at the Glasgow Print Studio last year and I instantly fell in love as it brought me back to my Fine Art roots.

Since then, as the title suggests, I've been playing with different styles, layering vivid colours, adding mark-making while using stencils cut out of various materials. I wanted the monoprints to be expressive, fun, playful and full of movement. I wanted them to radiate feminine energy with their curved and rounded shapes that would frequently appear in the repetition of three which symbolises both the birth-life-death cycle and the body-mind-soul connection; fields that are both very close to my heart."

Hinde's design background is eclectic and varied. She developed a passion for art and an interest in psychology, alternative therapies and mysticism, which ultimately led to studies in counselling and fine art. Having always harboured a desire to help others feel better, Hinde undertook an MA in Textile Design at the Chelsea College of Art and Design in London, founding SO KLARA in 2014 with the intention of running her own brand and creating quality, vibrant handcrafted products with a strong attention to detail - resulting in an inspiring, uplifting and empowering aesthetic.

Emphasising painterly-looking designs filled with spontaneous brushstrokes and texture, Hinde draws inspiration from her deep love of travelling, nature and narratives. "Travelling is the best way to learn about new places, traditions, cuisines, people and their crafts. It provides the opportunity to grow, appreciate, nurture and connect. After all, everyone has a story - and a deep desire to belong to something greater."

This holistic approach has led Hinde's artwork to be shortlisted for the Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition, and her designs have also been featured in high-end publications such as the Financial Times, Elle and Homes & Property, as well as exhibited throughout the UK and overseas.