39 - Sarah McCarthy Grimm

Basaltic Remnants 2, 2023. Acrylic and saltwater on paper on canvas, 30 x 40 x 1.5 in. Courtesy the artist

From the artist: "As an interdisciplinary artist, my intention is to alchemize my internal inquiries and struggles into a healing experience. To reclaim my body by transmuting pain, I cold-plunge in the Pacific at San Francisco's Ocean Beach every other day, then utilize the materiality of the sea in my abstract acrylic paintings. Since 2016, I have developed an 'imprinting technique that merges mantra meditation with hand-press monoprinting to create unique textures with subtle meaning. This I use in both my paintings on canvas and in social practice, such as my workshop framework called 'Collective Imprints.' With monotype, I mechanically metabolize my visceral experience of life. To tell stories more directly, I practice film photography and am writing a novel that I hope will be an antidote to the myth of linear spiritual growth. In all that I do, I am most interested in creating more spaciousness in humanity towards greater care for one another and the planet."            

Since completing her Design MBA at CCA in 2020, McCarthy Grimm has sought to bridge the art world with social activation. In this endeavor, she has had 5 solo shows, participated in many group exhibitions, and collaborated on a number of social practice projects. Some of her shows include Pemulis Water & Power (2024) and Mare Lunatica, NeueHouse, Venice Beach (2023).