Clara Woods: Cover Artist -The Big Book of Tiny Creatives

With bold colors and an unshakable spirit, Clara Woods graces the cover of The Big Book of Tiny Creatives, turning that very first glance into an invitation to dream without limits. At Arts to Hearts Project, we have always believed that creativity deserves to be seen, celebrated, and shared. As a global community, we’ve had the privilege of highlighting countless artists from every corner of the world whether they were just beginning their journey, finding their voice, or already masters of their craft. Each story, each artwork, has been a reminder of how powerful art can be in connecting us all. This time, we wanted to take that vision one step further to celebrate the little creatives, the voices of tomorrow. And the response we received was overwhelming in the most beautiful way. From doodles to full-fledged masterpieces, every submission carried a piece of wonder, reminding us why we do what we do.

There is nothing more powerful than a child’s unfiltered imagination. Featuring works by young artists aged 2 to 18, this book celebrates creativity in its truest form raw, fearless, and instinctive. It reminds us that art begins not with mastery, but with honesty, curiosity, and the courage to make a mark. Each page bursts with fresh

And the cover of this book was created by Clara. Her artwork doesn’t just decorate the fron it sets the tone for what lies within: a world where the youngest voices teach us the oldest truth that imagination, when nurtured, can overcome anything. Clara’s journey is more than inspirational; it is living proof that creativity, in its purest form, is both healing and limitless.

Who is Clara Woods?

Clara Woods is an Italian-born, California-based painter and model who has captured the hearts of thousands worldwide with her vibrant, expressive paintings. Born in Florence in 2006, Clara suffered a prenatal stroke that left her unable to speak, read, or write. Doctors told her parents that life would be limited for her. Yet, she transformed these challenges into extraordinary creativity, finding her voice through painting when words could not. From a very young age, she used color and brushstrokes as her language, translating emotions, stories, and inner experiences into visual forms. Her art became not just a pastime, but a profound tool of communication, allowing her to share her perspective with the world.

Beginnings of Clara’s Creative Journey

Clara’s journey began with a mother’s determination and a family’s faith. Her mother, Betina Genovesi, opened Clara’s first social media accounts when she was just ten, giving the world a window into her creative process. Soon, Clara was ready for her first exhibition.

In March 2018, a family friend offered space at Tutto Bene, a beloved café in Florence. Co-owner Claudio Pecchioli recalls being “struck by the colours [of Clara’s paintings], conveying a feeling of pure joy that helped me through Gray days.” That exhibition sold out and marked the beginning of Clara’s rise as an artist. From that moment, there was no turning back Clara had found her way to tell the world who she was.

Themes & Inspirations

Clara’s work is strongly influenced by her admiration for Frida Kahlo, the iconic painter who also transformed personal challenges into groundbreaking art. Inspired by Kahlo’s resilience, Clara once set her sights on hosting an exhibition in New York City, a dream she continues to pursue with determination.

Her paintings are full of life: bright colours, bold brushstrokes, glitter, and floral motifs. They often explore themes of love, identity, inclusion, and her personal struggles with communication. Works such as Frozen Tongue reflect the frustration of her inability to speak, while others like her Love collection radiate warmth, joy, and hope. Clara also often draws inspiration from her younger brother, Davi, and from nature, creating art that bridges innocence with powerful emotion. Each painting reflects her ability to transform challenges into stories of strength, demanding that the world see ability, not disability.

Collaborations & Growth

Clara’s career blossomed when her family moved to Huntington Beach, California, in 2020 after receiving an extraordinary ability visa. This move gave her opportunities to collaborate with cultural institutions, artists, and communities across the U.S.

In 2023, she hosted her first major California exhibition at the Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center, showcasing favourites like Rainbow River. Clara also uses her growing social media presence to connect with fans worldwide, often sharing emotional moments of collectors receiving her paintings. Her Instagram has become a vibrant gallery, offering a glimpse into her process and the love her art inspires.

Exhibitions & Recognition

Clara’s exhibitions continue to make headlines. Her art has been celebrated in:

• Florence, Italy – Tutto Bene Café (2018)
• Kobe, Japan – System Gallery (2018)
• London & Miami – Group Exhibitions (2019–2020)
• California, USA – Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center (2023)
• Numerous private showings and online exhibitions

She has been featured in Forbes Italy, international press outlets, and major art platforms like Saatchi Art, where her works continue to be sought after.

Clara’s Legacy in the Making

At just 17 years old, Clara Woods is already a trailblazer in the contemporary art world. She represents the power of creativity to transcend limitations, proving that art can be a voice when words are absent. Her motto, “Dream big, work hard,” reflects not just her personal journey but also her mission to uplift other artists of special abilities. Through her art, Clara advocates for inclusivity, diversity, and the courage to live without barriers.

As Clara continues to grow, her story reminds us that creativity knows no boundaries and that art, at its core, is about resilience, expression, and connection.