Galerie Anna Probst (GAP): How does your perspective as a woman influence your artistic practice, and are there specific themes related to gender, identity, or empowerment that emerge in your work?
May Carro Cabaleiro (MCC): I do believe that my artistic expression is feminine. It’s not specifically about certain themes, but rather about a particular emphasis, a perspective, a way of approaching things – one that seeks connection and healing.
GAP: How did you get into art, and what initially inspired you?
MCC: Even as a child, it was an instinctive way of seeking answers.
GAP: As a woman in the art world, have you experienced particular challenges? If so, what helped you overcome them?
MCC: I am convinced that women find fulfillment in a different way than men. In the last years of my studies, I realized that my interests regarding public life and art were fundamentally different from those of men. I believe that women have a stronger interest in community, belonging, as well as healing visions and attitudes. My response was more about withdrawal and more intensive inner work.
GAP: Are there female artists – past or present – who have inspired your career, and what influence have they had on your work?
MCC: Of course! Hilma af Klint (1862–1944) for her search for the spiritual dimension in art, Georgiana Houghton (1814–1884) for her transpersonal perspective, Etel Adnan (1925–2021) for her authenticity and simplicity, and my friend Barbara Diethelm, because she seeks answers in the stars.
GAP: In your opinion, what role does art play in today’s society, especially concerning the empowerment of women and marginalized voices?
MCC: I believe there is great openness and growing interest in diversity and differentiation, as well as a much finer and more nuanced artistic perspective. The world is naturally becoming more feminine.
GAP: What advice would you give to aspiring female artists navigating the art world today, and what changes would you like to see for women in art in the coming years?
MCC: Be open to everything, but at the same time, stay true to your own deep, natural needs.
GAP: What developments in the art scene regarding gender equality would you like to see in the future? – What challenges do you think women in the art world have to face?
MCC: I repeat: The world will become feminine on its own – or it will cease to be.
GAP: How do you perceive the current state of the art market, and are there trends that influence your artistic direction?
MCC: I find there is more knowledge about quality. New materials and techniques should hopefully serve truth, authenticity, and a better world.
GAP: Was it a conscious decision to work with a gallerist, or were other factors decisive?
MCC: An absolute, consciously heart-led, intuitive decision, if we want to express ourselves femininely.
MCC: Something else relevant occurred to me: For me, it is self-evident that the rigid boundaries of what we have previously defined as woman or man are dissolving – and that is a good thing. When I speak of femininity, I refer more to feminine qualities that can be present in any gender identity.
