Today we’d like to introduce you to Clara Woods
Clara, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Sure! My story began in Florence, Italy, where I was born a fighter, surviving a perinatal stroke that left me unable to speak or write. For years, I struggled to find a way to express myself and connect with the world, but in 2016, everything changed. I started painting for fun, and it quickly became my voice—a way to tell my story without words.
By 12 years old, I held my first art exhibition, and since then, I’ve created over 1,000 artworks and showcased them in places I never imagined, like Art Basel and even alongside LVMH. In 2021, my family and I moved to California, where I launched Clara Woods Collection to share my art and grow The Inclusion Matters Movement.
Today, I’m not just an artist but also an entrepreneur and advocate for inclusion, inspiring others to embrace their differences. My journey is about turning challenges into something beautiful and proving that art has no limits.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—there have been lots of bumps along the way. Growing up, it was hard for people to understand me because I can’t speak or write, which often made me feel lonely. I wanted to be part of the world but didn’t always know how to fit in.
When I started painting, it took me time to believe that what I created was good enough. I used to paint over my work in black because I didn’t like it. It was frustrating, but it also taught me to be patient with myself.
Another big challenge was moving from Italy to California in 2020. We left behind everything we knew during the pandemic, starting fresh in a new country where we had to rebuild from scratch. It was scary and exciting at the same time, but it brought me closer to my dream of showing my art to the world.
Even now, I face challenges. Crowded spaces can feel overwhelming, and I sometimes struggle to communicate my ideas clearly. But I’ve learned to turn these struggles into strengths, using my art as my voice and connecting with people who support my vision of inclusion and creativity.
It’s been a journey of ups and downs, but every challenge has shaped me into the artist and person I am today.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Clara Woods Collection is much more than just an art business—it’s a movement that blends creativity, inclusion, and empowerment. At its core, we focus on my artwork, which is all about self-expression, vibrancy, and telling stories that words can’t. Beyond that, we specialize in spreading awareness about inclusion through everything we do, from art collections to brand collaborations to public speaking.
What sets us apart is that we’re not just selling art—we’re sharing a story of resilience and breaking barriers. As someone who can’t speak or write, I’ve built a brand that connects with people through emotions and visuals. We’ve created a global community that celebrates diversity and inspires others to embrace their differences.
One thing I’m most proud of is how my art and story have helped build The Inclusion Matters Movement. Through partnerships, events, and social media, we’ve been able to show that inclusion isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a way of life. My art has reached amazing milestones, like being showcased at Art Basel, hitting 1,000 artworks, and collaborating with brands that believe in the same mission.
I want readers to know that our brand isn’t just about me—it’s about all of us. It’s about believing in the power of creativity to bring people together, no matter their abilities or background. Whether it’s a piece of art, a book, a panel discussion, or even a limited-edition collection, everything we create is meant to inspire and make people feel seen.
And we’re just getting started! From new exhibitions to my dream book – Dreamland—a kids’ book I illustrated about inclusion—we’re always looking for fresh ways to spread our message. My art is my voice, and our brand is how we amplify it to make a difference.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
The Covid-19 crisis taught me and my family a lot about resilience, adaptability, and the power of connection—even when we’re apart.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.clarawoodscollection.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woods_clara_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clarawoodsofficial/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@clarawoods
