Claudia Lee
Bio
I am a full-time working multidisciplinary studio artist, teacher, designer, consultant, author, and internationally recognized instructor. With a career that spans decades, my work has been featured in over 30 publications and is held in numerous private and public collections. A two-time recipient of the Master Craft Artist Grant and the Individual Artist Fellowship from the Tennessee Arts Commission, I’ve been widely recognized for my contributions to the field. I’m also the founder of Liberty Paper, a working studio and teaching facility in Liberty Tennessee, where I continue to create, innovate, and share my expertise with students from around the world.
Describe your art/craft (medium, process, etc).
I work with handmade paper which I design for my artwork. I make wall pieces, sculptural pieces, lamps, artists books and hand-stitched, collaged boxes and vessels. I also teach nationally and internationally as well as in my studio, Liberty Paper.
What drives you to make your art/craft?
I have been making art since I was a young child. For me, it was never a hobby but always something I have been driven to do. I have no idea where that comes from, I just know that this is the most rewarding lifestyle I could imagine and I'm very grateful for it.
Who or what are your greatest influences?
It's impossible to list my greatest influences as there are so many. I think that being a curious and aware human being provides me with more and more ideas and directions to explore, keeping my work evolving and the process fun and fresh.
How does living in Tennessee influence and inspire your art?
Tennessee is one of the few states that has a statewide craft organization, Tennessee Craft, as well as the Tennessee Arts Commission. Their support has been invaluable to me. They have also provided me with a vibrant community of fellow artists.
Beyond your art/craft, what are your other interests?
Cooking is a creative outlet for me and getting together with friends.
Anything else you want to share?
The Off the Beaten Path Studio tour continues to be a great way for me to connect with the public. I love inviting them to my studio and sharing what I do here. It has become an important opportunity to introduce new work and to meet new folks who support this community of artists.
