Carlota Villa-Lobos Yglesias Carvalhaes Garcia, a visionary in Transformation Design at the Willem de Kooning Academy, brings forth a synthesis of art, activism, and spirituality in her practice. Originally from Portugal and residing in Rotterdam, Carlota's work transcends conventional boundaries, delving into themes of community, feminism, and reclaiming power.
What is the focus of your graduation project?
"I'm continuing my exploration of the witch hunt's impact on patriarchy and capitalism, initiated during my hacking minor. My project centers on embodied practices, incorporating movement, magic, and rituals. I aim to create a movable tent, symbolizing the reclaiming of feminine power, where I'll host workshops on sensual energy and gender identity."
What inspired you to pursue this subject?
"As a practitioner of witchcraft, I've long been intrigued by the societal ramifications of patriarchy. Being queer and a woman, I've experienced its effects firsthand. My interest in hacking systems to envision alternative worlds led me to this subject."
Where are you in your process currently?
"I'm in the midst of designing and building the tent, which I consider foundational to my project. Research through hands-on creation allows me to refine my vision and explore possibilities."
Was it difficult for you to decide on this topic?
"Initially, I struggled to narrow down my focus within such a dense subject. However, my natural inclination towards the topic, coupled with ongoing discussions with peers, led me to this path."
Do you feel pressure as graduation approaches?
"No, I've consciously chosen not to succumb to pressure. I view this period as an opportunity to immerse myself in a project I'm passionate about, free from external stressors. I'm embracing the journey with an open mind and heart."
What aspect of your project are you most excited about?
"I'm thrilled about the collaborative aspect of my workshops and the potential for meaningful engagement with diverse perspectives. Graduation symbolizes liberation from the academy's bubble, allowing me to share my work with the broader community."
How has your time at WdKA shaped your artistic growth?
"Transitioning from Fashion to Transformation Design has been pivotal. I've evolved from fearing failure to embracing mistakes as part of the creative process. The supportive environment and connections forged here have been invaluable."
Reflecting on your journey, what's the biggest difference between your first year and now?
"I've shed my fear of failure and gained confidence in my abilities. Additionally, I've found alignment between my art practice and personal beliefs, leading to a deeper sense of purpose."
How have these years prepared you for your final project?
"I've learned to trust my intuition and embrace experimentation. Guidance from teachers and exposure to diverse references have enriched my practice, providing a strong foundation for my project."
What are your plans post-graduation?
"I'm deeply engaged in my current projects, exploring avenues in education and continuing research in Indonesia. A potential master's degree is on the horizon, as I'm eager to continue my journey of learning."
