Interview
Clarissa van Vreden
Artist Clarissa van Vreden was born in Hong Kong. She is half Dutch and half American. and grew up mostly in America. She likes to go by the name Alice Asisistry. She feels Alice is a short, sweet version of her first name, Clarissa, and Asisistry as an artist-defining last name.
She knows that art is everything but nature, though she does get inspired by nature. She has painted so much that color combinations of her desires are pleasurable and come easily to her. For Clarissa, creation is non-negotiable, otherwise she feels tired and drained.
Art is definitely her passion in life, and she can’t imagine life without creating. She invites viewers of her work to feel totally welcome to her creations, as she wants nothing more than to share and have them be a part of it.
Clarissa has donated one of her works and it’s currently residing in the UNESCO offices at the Dutch Embassy. She has studied business and fashion & design, and has accomplished much in her art journey.
Clarissa’s passion is fashion, which she affirms is definitely an art form.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I have a love for expression and poetry, whether it’s purely fictional or based in reality. I enjoy doing a lot of things on my own, but this doesn’t mean I refuse to accept help from others. I, in turn, also offer to help others wherever I’m able to. I believe in never letting yourself be afraid to stand in the shoes of another.
I love writing, not just about my day, but about the intricate detailing of the humanities. My new piano is quickly becoming my love, as I couldn’t carry all my precious belongings with me when I moved from my former home in Massachusetts.
My secret is that I don’t believe in mistakes because one not only learns from them, but in art, one can literally paint over mistakes and end up creating something beautiful.
I live my life through drawing, painting, gluing things, biking, playing the piano, writing, typing, and so much more.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“My work doesn’t have any connection with political issues.”
What process, materials, techniques, etc., do you use to create your artwork?
“In creating my work, I mainly use acrylics, soft markers, and sharpies. Sometimes I use pencils and watercolors. I also do some photography.”
What does your art mean to you?
“My art doesn’t hold any inherent meaning. Its purpose is to help me breathe in my surroundings.”
What is your favorite artwork and why?
“My favorite artwork is Drinking Wine with a Friend. This is a photography piece taken in the year 2000.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“My art was donated to United Nations (UNESCO) and appreciated by the Dutch Embassy, where it currently resides.”
