Carola Compa is a ceramic artist from Argentina, now living in Sweden, whose work has been featured in many museums and galleries. Carola graduated with honors in architecture from Rosario National University in 2002. Carola’s sculptures are a study of the flow of human energy in space. She says she uses her senses to connect with her sculptures, sensing the touch of the curves that translate into visual spaces. At Buffalo Creek Art Center he made a number of clay and porcelain sculptures for several galleries and left a beautiful piece for the BCAC ranch house.

“The residency was a wonderful experience on different levels: professional, relational, and personal. For a full month, I dedicated myself to the exploration of my artwork. It wasn’t merely an immersion into new materials and sculptural forms, but a profound journey into the very essence of what art signifies to me. The experience at the residency serves as the genesis of my artwork to come.

Buffalo Art Center is outstanding in every sense! They offer a spacious and fully-equipped workshop, a helpful and friendly staff, and a cozy and completely kitted-out house. It took me only one day to consider the place my home. The landscape unfurled its enchantment: breathtaking orange-pink sunrises over the valley, imposing mountains casting dramatic shadows against blue skies at my workplace table, and warm and loving dinner nights with my fellow artists in residence.

The people factor is undoubtedly important for the experience. Bill and Mel, were always available to help and make things easy for us. Their caring energy was present in every detail, from materials and tools for the workshop to small elements in the kitchen and pristine linens to the fluffy towels. Words are not enough to thank the hosts, Steve and Lana. Humbly and lovingly, they generously offer their sanctuary to artists. Steve even shares his own wood workshop!

Last but not least, sharing with the other residents was a fulfilling experience. It took us only two days to feel like a “family.” Caprice, Jake, Amanda, and Eric were my September 2023 family! We shared the house respecting each other’s spaces and rhythms, we shared meals, workshop moments, artistic experiences, and life experiences. While sharing the present, we shared some past and dreamed about the future.

To sum up: GREAT! (Great experience, at a Great place, with Great people!)”

– Carola Compá

Artist’s Interview