Artist Statement

My name is Carla Mintz and I'm the artist behind Arie Debren Art. I'm originally from Poughkeepsie, NY but currently reside in the Metro Atlanta area with my husband and 2 young sons.

All my life I've been a creative. As a child I loved coloring books, any sort of arts and crafts project, and at 11 years old I started my own business up-cycling glass bottles into flower vases (I didn't even know what up-cycling was at the time). When I became a teenager, I found my love of drawing people, particularly Black women. I would scour the pages of VIBE and The Source magazines looking for the perfect reference photos. I know from most people's perspective these magazines, and others like them, don't always portray women in a respectful way. But I find the black female form to be so beautiful and powerful. The gentle curves of our bodies, the softness of our skin, the way we can turn heads with just the right outfit and a sultry walk. What other species can do that?

I find empowerment, resilience, and unshakable beauty within Black women As a Black woman and oil painter, my artistic journey is an exploration of identity, culture, and the profound strength that resides within us. Through my work, I aim to uplift and inspire, while also challenging the preconceived notions that have long overshadowed our narratives.

The Black women in my paintings exude an air of confidence and self-awareness, inviting the viewer to delve deeper into the layers of our existence. Every brushstroke is a testament to the multitude of roles we embody – from the fierce warrior to the gentle nurturer, from the unsung hero to the unapologetic dreamer.

As a Black woman myself, I recognize the importance of representation in the art world. The absence of our stories and bodies has perpetuated a cycle of erasure that I am determined to break. Through my art, I seek to challenge the status quo and redefine standards of beauty. Each stroke is a step towards reclaiming our narrative, celebrating our complexities, and shedding light on the nuanced experiences that shape us.

My creative journey doesn't stop at the canvas. It extends to an array of merchandise that not only showcases my art but also integrates original designs inspired by the strength of Black women. From clothing to accessories, every item carries a piece of our story, intertwining it with artistry and functionality. It's a way to make art an intimate part of everyday life and foster a deeper connection with those who resonate with my vision.

In the strokes of my brush, I blend realism with abstraction, capturing the essence of emotions that transcend color and culture. My work is an invitation to dialogue, a celebration of resilience, and a reclamation of space for the black female form. Through my art and merchandise, I aspire to create a ripple effect of self-love, empowerment, and unity, reminding black women that their stories are not just heard, but seen vividly on the canvas of life.