Orin Carpenter
What the Heart Wants, 2024
mixed media on canvas
36 x 48 inches
C-lective Curator’s Cut:
In his Breathing Through Change series, Orin explores the tension we all navigate in today’s world: the coexistence of painful uncertainty and moments of unexpected beauty. This piece is a striking example from the series. Some of his brushstrokes feel raw and cathartic, while others dance with a sense of wonder and whimsy. Cool tones ground the composition, offering a sense of calm, while vivid bursts of orange, pink, and red encourage us to embrace imbalance, to notice and celebrate the color that appears even in our most intense, uncertain days.
Orin Carpenter, PhD
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Art became my refuge and strength during childhood, helping me navigate the complexities of my identity. Comic books sparked my imagination, teaching me that creativity could be a superpower. Over time, I realized I couldn’t stay hidden in fantasy — I needed to bring my imagination to life. This discovery became the foundation of my practice: creating worlds that reflect my journey and forge connections with others.
“For me, art is about layers - each piece revealing truths about humanity and identity.”
“Working with mixed media allows me to unify materials in a process that mirrors life itself: intricate, dynamic, and transformative.”
His identity profoundly shapes his art, infusing it with authenticity and purpose. Each creation is a reflection of his story and an invitation for others to discover their own
Interview with Orin Carpenter, PhD
What inspired you to become an artist?
Comic books spark my imagination during childhood, teaching me that creativity could be a superpower. Art became my refuge and strength, helping me navigate the complexities of my identity. Over time, I realized I couldn't stay hidden in fantasy — I needed to bring my imagination to life.
How would you describe your artistic process?
My process is layered, much like life itself. I begin with an emotional response or concept, then build layers of meaning through color, texture, and form. each layer represents a different aspect of the human experience creating a complex narrative that viewers can interpret through their own lens.
What do you hope viewers take away from your work?
I hope viewers find pieces of themselves in my work — Moments of recognition, reflection and connection. my goal is to create a space for dialog about identity, belonging, and transformation. when someone stands before my work and feels seen, or begins to see others in a new light, that's when I know my art has succeeded.