In The Middle Of The River

Claire Nakazawa

orn to an Australian mother and Japanese father, Claire Nakazawa spent her childhood in The Blue Mountains and moved to Sydney in 2004 to study at The UNSW College of Fine Arts. Since graduating in 2007 with a Major in Painting, Claire’s exhibitions, street art, live art performances and murals have made her a visible, valued and active member of Sydney’s art scene.

Claire’s latest exhibition, which opens 8th November at 107 Projects in Redfern, demonstrates her eclectic and intuitive painting style and expresses themes of identity, sexuality, vulnerability and connection. The title, ‘In the Middle of the River’, translates to ‘Nakazawa’ in Japanese Kanji and refers to Claire's heritage and the personal and raw nature of her art-making process. Claire works in a variety of mediums and has a passion for live, improvised art. Alongside her paintings, illustrations and murals, Claire also performs as an artist and illustrator for Sydney’s freestyle rap and sketch performance group “Sketch the Rhyme”.

Claire has exhibited around Australia in a variety of successful shows, including her sold out debut solo show in 2009 and group shows in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. She has received several grants, residencies and awards such as ArtStart, Leichardt City Council Mural Art award, Blue Mountains Street Art Mayors award and the Frasier Studios residency program. For further information on Claire please see her website www.clairenakazawa.com.

‘In the Middle of the River’ is on show at 107 Projects’ Galleries in Redfern. This new hybrid arts hub opened earlier this month and is fast becoming a landmark within Redfern’s cultural growth. 107 Projects’ presents works from artists of all disciplines including music, performance, poetry and visual arts.
Opening Night Thursday 8th November 6-9pm
Exhibition Open Thursday - Sunday from noon - 5pm until Sunday 25th November