Meet the Artist

Carmen

Mahave

Sculptor and Mouldmaker

“ My work looks into the intricate complexities of the human body, the othering, sexuality, intimacy, shame, and judgement that inhabit it. Grounded in a critical examination of Western treatments of the animal, the monster, the queer, the femme and the mutant body, my artistic practice explores societal constructs and their impact on individual and collective perceptions of the self and the other. Central to my work is the role of relationships and empathy in shaping our understanding of the body, both our own and of others. Through an examination of the paradoxical interplay between individuality and connection, I invite viewers to confront their preconceived notions and reconsider the boundaries that define the human and non-human body. My studio practice is grounded in mouldmaking and casting, processes that carry inherent connotations of reproduction and replication. These media act as a conceptual anchor, echoing the tension between uniqueness and replication, inviting viewers to reflect on the complexities between individuality and the collective. Through my work, viewers are situated in an uncanny space where familiar becomes unfamiliar, and the boundaries between self and other blur. Each piece serves as a catalyst for introspection, challenging viewers to confront their own biases and assumptions while navigating the intricacies of the human experience.”

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Hi! I'm Carmen Mahave, a T’karonto (Toronto)-based student, sculptor, and mouldmaker, specializing in silicone mouldmaking. With a commitment to artistic exploration, I've had the privilege of exhibiting my works at Beaver Hall Gallery, OCAD University, as well as independent shows in Toronto's vibrant art scene, including exhibitions at cafes, tabling events, and private collections. Currently, I'm pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts at OCAD University with a major in sculpture and installation, and my academic journey is enriched by my active involvement in the arts community. Notably, I founded the OCADU Mouldmaking Club, aiming to foster a supportive environment for artistic growth among students. This initiative aligns with my dedication to nurturing emerging talent and creating a supportive learning environment for artistic development. Driven by a deep-seated curiosity and a commitment to excellence, I continue to push boundaries in my artistic practice, exploring the intricacies of the human experience through my uncanny creations.
OCAD U - Faculty of Art
Sculpture/Installation
Major Completed, 2024

Mouldmaking Silicone Casting Sculpture 3D Modelling Ceramics Bronze Casting

2024, Crossroads Exhibition
OCAD Univeristy
2023, SCIN Festival
OCAD Univeristy
2023, YOUphoria
Propeller Art Gallery
2022, Plasticity’s Field of Action II
Beaver Hall, Toronto, ON
2022, Touch
Supernova Coffee
2018, Comb III
Riverdale Collegiate Institute
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