Kara Schoeman

Kara Schoeman is an artist hailing from the mountainous landscapes of Clarens in the Eastern Free State, South Africa. Renowned for her captivating sculptures, immersive installations, and mesmerizing video projections, Schoeman seamlessly merges art with psychology, delving into the profound realms of human consciousness. Schoeman recently completed her Masters degree in Art Therapy at the University of Johannesburg, she stands as a pioneering member of the first cohort of students to study Art Therapy in South Africa.

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Within her awe-inspiring body of work, Schoeman skillfully explores the poignant theme of species extinction and its profound impact on the human psyche. Her artistic prowess shines through in her metal creations. She and her father, Stephan Schoeman, repurpose aluminium, breathing life into intricate functional artworks. Employing a unique process that involves melting down auto-motor parts and skillfully casting them into artworks, they forge pieces that captivate the imagination and provoke thought.

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Schoeman's artistic journey commenced with her graduation from the University of the Free State in 2016, where she achieved a BA Fine Art Degree (cum laude), solidifying her status as an exceptional talent. Notably, she went on to graduate with a BA Honours degree in Psychology in 2017, demonstrating her holistic approach to the creative process. Her unwavering dedication to her craft culminated in the achievement of a further Art Therapy Honours (cum laude) and Masters degrees in 2021 and 2024

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During her academic pursuits, Schoeman's outstanding abilities were recognized and celebrated. She was awarded the best Fine Art student in her year group for two consecutive years, an achievement that attests to her exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to artistic excellence. Furthermore, in 2015, she was honored with the coveted title of best overall Art History student, further solidifying her reputation as a multifaceted artist.

Schoeman's mesmerizing works have been prominently displayed in prestigious galleries and institutions, including the Johannes Stegmann Art Gallery, Oliewenhuis Art Museum, Map Gallery, UJ Art Gallery, Young Blood Art Gallery, Gallery on Leviseur, ABSA Gallery, Art@Clocktower Gallery, Art@Africa, and Design Indaba. Each exhibition serves as a testament to her ability to evoke powerful emotions and engage viewers in transformative experiences.

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With her vast knowledge and passion for the arts, Schoeman has also actively contributed to the education sector. As a Junior Lecturer in the Fine Art department of the University of the Free State, she has guided and inspired aspiring artists, shaping the next generation of creative visionaries. Moreover, her prowess extends beyond the studio as she has curated and co-curated several exhibitions, curating immersive spaces that ignite dialogue and provoke contemplation. She continues to work in the Psychology department of the University of the Free State since 2017 at the QwaQwa campus where she educates psychology students and conduct research in rural areas of South Africa. 

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Schoeman's deep-rooted connection to the artistic world is further exemplified through her previous role as a Gallery Assistant at the esteemed Johannes Stegmann Art Gallery from 2015 to 2017. Alongside her tenure at the gallery, she has been an integral part of the University of the Free State since 2015, lending her expertise to the Fine Art department, Art History and Image Studies department, as well as the Psychology Department.

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Kara Schoeman is more than an artist; she is a visionary whose artistic expression transcends boundaries. Her creations not only invite viewers to explore the intricate tapestry of emotions, but also illuminate the profound connection between art and psychology. As she continues to push artistic boundaries and unravel the mysteries of the human psyche, Schoeman's remarkable journey unfolds, captivating hearts and minds alike.