We’re looking forward to introducing you to Clara Kay. Check out our conversation below.
Clara, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I’m most proud of building my relationship with myself. It’s something that isn’t necessarily seen by others on a daily basis, but I’m sure it has made a difference in my relationships with others and how I show up in the world. I’m reminded of lyrics from the song “Strive” by Apani B-Fly Emcee that say, “Who are you gonna help if you can’t help yourself? Where you gonna go when there ain’t no place left?” and I try to live by a similar idea. When I’m not putting my needs first and not listening to my mind/body/soul, I can’t be the person that I want to be for others. People may come and go, but I come back to myself for the comfort I seek. You always have yourself at the end of the day, and to truly see yourself and be your own castle grants you a special strength. And it’s not just taking care of your basic needs, it’s making a commitment to nurture your relationship with yourself — to see all of yourself. I enjoy my alone time as I use it to recharge and converse with myself, check in on what I’m feeling and dreaming about. I’ve learned that I am the love I seek in others, and I must turn to myself to grow my dreams. When you have a strong foundation with yourself, you can be the friend you hope to be for others and you will find the people that connect with your love. I can give more to others after I have poured love into myself. When I know who I am, I can show up in the world confident and engaged.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi I’m Clara, and I’m an artist. I make experimental electronica music solo as Claruin, and I also play in a goth/grunge band called Aratik. I’ve been invested in the music industry since I was 17, and I graduated from college with a BS in Music (Audio Production). I was formerly a dancer growing up, especially ballet, and I believe that gave me my roots to rhythm and movement as self expression. I also like to draw my own cover art and merch — art is the foundation of everything I do. I also currently work as a live sound engineer at a couple local venues in Denver. I recently completed this year’s fellowship with Youth on Record — an organization that has truly changed my life as a creative (love to cohort 7!). I’d like to continue working in the music and entertainment industry. Working with other creative people keeps me inspired. I’ve been gigging solo since August 2024, so it’s been a little over a year, and I’ve learned a lot about being an artist through this project.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Growing up, before I felt pressure from the outside to conform, I was curious, free-spirited, and unconventional. I was loud with my expression at times. I wasn’t concerned about others’ perceptions of me. I wasn’t afraid to be seen. I had my own rhythm. I’ve now been working to reconnect with my child self who was all of these unapologetic things. But I think I’ve often managed to go my own way while also trying to stay in touch with the world. Hanging out with myself can reassure me that I can make my dreams come true, and find a good corner of people to experience life with.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering has taught me that my stubbornness can be a power when I need it most. When I don’t succeed, it’s the curiosity to learn that keeps me going. Failure is never the end, it is the opportunity to understand more and/or experiment. Resistance or challenge is a chance to develop skill. One of the best feelings in the world is realizing you’re still curious even when things haven’t gone smoothly. If you are curious to learn, you will have the energy needed to persevere and grow. Suffering reveals how strong you can be.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to developing myself as an artist. I’m committed to expressing myself through art. I’m committed to creating. It’s something that can be built on forever. I’m committed to learning about other’s perspectives.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What will you regret not doing?
I will regret not trying when I have an urge to explore. I will regret not listening to my intuition when I feel pulled to do something.
Image Credits
machkne
infocuswithyou
audreysphotosandthings
youth on record
l0ve.aval0n
