We recently connected with Clara Woods and have shared our conversation below.

Clara, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

What my mom, Betina, did right was believe in me when no one else did. She saw potential in me that others couldn’t see and refused to let my challenges define who I could become. From the beginning, she motivated me to grow, to try, and to create. Even when things were hard, and the world didn’t seem to understand me, she never gave up on me—or on the dreams we shared.

One of the biggest moments that sticks with me is when I told her I wanted to have an exhibition, just like Frida Kahlo. I was so inspired by Frida’s story and felt this strong desire to share my art with the world. Instead of brushing it off as a dream that was too big, she said, “Let’s do it!” That moment became the foundation for everything we’ve built together. My first exhibition happened when I was just 12, and that opened the door to so much more.

My mom also showed me the importance of taking risks. When we started the business, it wasn’t easy. But she poured her energy into making it work—not just for me but for the message behind it. She taught me that our story and what we stand for matter, and that’s what keeps me going. I see her resilience, her ability to turn challenges into opportunities, and I carry that with me in everything I do.

The business we created together isn’t just about selling my art. It’s about telling my story, sharing a message of inclusion, and showing the world that being different is beautiful. I wouldn’t have had the courage or the vision to do any of this without my mom. She’s been my biggest cheerleader, my strength when I needed it most, and the person who always pushes me to dream bigger. What she’s done for me has shaped not only my career but my belief in myself and what’s possible.

Clara, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Hi, I’m Clara Woods, an artist who uses creativity as my voice. I had a perinatal stroke, which means I can’t speak, read or write, but art has become my way of expressing myself and sharing my world. I got into art as a hobby when I was little, but it turned into something much bigger. With the help of my mom, Betina, I had my first exhibition when I was just 12 years old. That was the moment we realized that my art could inspire people and bring a message of inclusion, hope, and resilience to the world.

Through my business, Clara Woods Collection, I create original paintings, prints, and collections that come straight from my heart and imagination. Many of my works are tied to my life story or inspired by a magical place I call “Clara’s Worlds,” where anything is possible. My art is vibrant, colorful, and unique—just like the message behind it.

What sets me apart is that every piece I create has a story. It’s not just a painting; it’s a way to show that being different is powerful, that creativity can break barriers, and that inclusion matters every day—not just when it’s trending. My brand also supports the Inclusion Matters Movement, where we advocate for diversity and shine a light on what makes each of us special.

One of the problems I solve for my clients is helping them find something meaningful to add to their homes or lives. My art isn’t just decoration—it’s a reminder to embrace life, celebrate differences, and find joy in the little things. Whether it’s an original painting, a print, or even a collaboration with a brand, everything I create connects with people on a personal level.

I’m most proud of how my art and my story have touched so many lives. From hosting exhibitions across the globe to building an online community of supporters, every step of this journey has been about more than just me. It’s about creating something bigger—a movement of inclusion and creativity that shows the world what’s possible.

What I want people to know about me and my work is that it’s all about connection. I want to inspire others to be themselves, to dream big, and to find beauty in their own journey. Whether you’re buying a piece of art or simply following along, you’re part of a story that celebrates the power of creativity and inclusion.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Yes, my creative journey is driven by this mission: to bring people together and to help other talents, especially those who often go unnoticed, to be seen and celebrated. Through my art and the Inclusion Matters Movement, I want to create a world where diversity is embraced and where everyone feels empowered to share their unique gifts.

Art has been my way of expressing myself and connecting with others, even though I can’t speak or write. It’s shown me that creativity can break barriers and build bridges between people from all walks of life. That’s why my mission isn’t just about showcasing my own work but also about creating opportunities for others to share their talents and stories.

I believe that when we celebrate each other’s differences, we create a stronger, more inclusive community. Whether it’s through my exhibitions, collaborations, or the movement we’ve started, I want to make sure no one is left out of the conversation. My art is a tool to inspire, connect, and shine a light on the incredible potential we all have inside us.

This mission keeps me motivated every day, and it’s what I hope people take away from my work: the idea that creativity can change the world, one story at a time.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

One story that really shows my resilience is the time I had surgery and couldn’t walk for four months. It was one of the toughest challenges I’ve ever faced. The surgery was necessary, but it left me completely dependent on others, which was frustrating and hard to cope with. I had to work through not just physical pain but also the emotional weight of feeling stuck.

But even during that time, I refused to let it stop me. I focused on recovery with everything I had. Every small movement, every bit of progress, felt like a victory. My family supported me, but I also found strength within myself. I kept my creative spirit alive by painting whenever I could, even if I had to sit or adapt the way I worked.

Those four months taught me a lot about patience and determination. It reminded me that setbacks don’t define you—how you respond to them does. Eventually, I was able to walk again, and looking back, I feel so proud of how I never gave up, even when it seemed like things were impossible. That experience didn’t just test my resilience—it made me even stronger and more committed to pushing forward, no matter what challenges come my way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.clarawoodscollection.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woods_clara_/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clarawoodsofficial
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clara-woods-56a5061a5/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@clarawoods