Clementine Morel
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AQ Volume V artist Clementine Morel is a photographer from the Dominican Republic residing in New York City. Clementine studied Advertising and Communications, emphasizing visual art in the Dominican Republic. They are interested in capturing the intersections of light, emotion, and narrative and are influenced by everyday life and the candid moments that reveal the beauty in simplicity. This influence stems from their desire to evoke deep emotions and tell stories that resonate personally with viewers, highlighting the interconnectedness of human experiences.
Clementine's work spans fashion photography to intimate portraiture, showcasing a unique vision and technical expertise. They collaborated with prominent Dominican artists, worked with Getty Images and Dove, and participated in several exhibitions between 2017 and 2024. Their first New York City exhibition was in 2019, organized by the collective EmpowHer. In 2024, Clementine's work was showcased at Satellite Gallery in NYC and featured in "Powered By Us," an exhibition celebrating Latinx artists in The Bronx. They plan to continue developing their craft, exhibiting local and international work, and pushing creative boundaries in the future.
https://www.clementinemo.com/
What inspired you to become an artist, and how did you decide to commit to this path?
I believe the exposure I had to art from a very early age inspired me to become an artist. My mom encouraged me to follow my curiosity about the world, allowing me to explore music and photography since I was a little kid. I decided to commit to being a visual artist at 14 years old when I got my first camera.
Could you share the story or concept behind your recent work?
In the heat of summer, I capture the profound transition of shedding innocence and stepping out from a once-sheltered world. My photography delves into the poignant experience of unraveling and discovering a new self on the edge of uncharted dreams and fears. It’s a moment filled with uncertainty, where the outcome of whether I will fall or fly remains unknown, but the leap is taken with courage and resolve.
Through my lens, I explore themes of sexuality, irreverence, and identity, offering a deeply evocative portrayal of the complexities and raw beauty inherent in coming of age. My work reflects the journey from the familiar confines of a small town to the dynamic, vibrant cityscape of New York. In a city renowned for its diversity and constant reinvention, the experience is both liberating and challenging. Amidst New York's chaotic beauty, finding oneself can be daunting, as it's easy to feel lost in a sea of faces and personalities. Yet, New York also offers the promise of true belonging and the chance to be seen for who I genuinely am, marking a profound transformation from being just another face in the crowd to discovering and embracing my authentic self for the first time.
No matter how far I travel from the island, the connection to Dominican culture remains a powerful and enduring force. My work highlights how the pride and identity of being Dominican persist beyond geographical boundaries. This cultural heritage, rich with history and tradition, continues to shape and influence my art and personal journey. Navigating the complexities of identity while living outside the island, I show that the essence of being Dominican—its vibrant spirit and deep-rooted pride—will always prevail, grounding me in a sense of belonging and identity regardless of the distance from home.
What was the most challenging part of your path so far? How are you navigating this obstacle?
The most challenging part of my path so far has been learning to trust the process and let go of rigid expectations. Growing up in a Latinx household, I felt there was a clear checklist of accomplishments I needed to achieve to be seen as "successful." Pursuing a creative career, however, has required me to redefine what success means and to be open to an unconventional journey. I’m navigating this challenge by reminding myself that my path is uniquely mine. I focus on my progress, trust in the work I’m putting in, and stay grounded in the vision I have for my future.
What role does experimentation and exploration play in your artistic practice?
Experimentation and exploration are essential to my artistic practice; they keep my work fresh and connected to my sense of curiosity. I explore and experiment daily, whether in my art or even in something as simple as what I eat. This approach allows me to stay connected to my inner child, embracing a playful, open-minded perspective. Art is a playground for me, a space where I'm constantly learning, discovering, and pushing boundaries to evolve my craft.
Do you have any beginning or end rituals before creating?
My rituals are very organic and not calculated at all. Music is always key for me to get into a creative headspace. If the weather allows, going for a walk before reviewing the brief or treatment for a project helps get my creativity flowing. As a stop ritual, I review my work several times before making the final selection. Going back and forth gives me fresh eyes to assess what I’ve created and ensure it aligns with my vision.
What message do you hope your art conveys to the world?
Through my photography, I aim to convey authenticity, connection, and the beauty found in everyday moments. I focus on capturing the nuances of light and emotion, expressing a deep appreciation for the unique stories people carry within them. My goal is to create images that invite viewers to pause, connect, think, and feel a shared sense of humanity. I want my work to evoke both strength and vulnerability, reflecting my respect for individuality and the subtle beauty that often goes unnoticed in ordinary experiences.
Share a mantra or favorite quote that keeps you going.
To fear; you give love.
