Bio
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Claire Violet Hanley has a developing professional art practice. Having shown early promise in film, serious health concerns curtailed this practice and has led to ongoing chronic fatigue. In recent years she has begun to work in forms which are more accessible and support her health needs. This includes non-toxic paints, hand modelling in clay, analogue and digital drawing. She is interested in neurodivergent joy and ecological issues. Claire is seeking opportunities to grow as an artist
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CV
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Education
Cambridge University, Robinson College. 1997-2001
B.A. Hons, M.A. Hons
Social Anthropology with Modern Languages (Spanish and German)
Southampton University. 2003-2004
MSc Global Politics and International Relations
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Previous Films
The Door to Adulthood, 2010
The Swan who Kept Paddling, 2011
Film Festivals
Minghella International Film Festival, 2011
New York International Film Festival, August 2011
Corto Helvetico Al Feminine, 2010
Vancouver International Film Festival, 2011
Exhibitions and Talks​
Upcoming:
'Unseen' Group Exhibition, Hastings Art Forum. 30th September - 9th October 2026
Solo Exhibition, Stockbridge, 15/16th August 2026
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Previous:​
The Science Museum, London, 2011
Description: My film was shown to an audience as part of the Science Museum's "Rich Pickings, Developing Identity" Programme. There was then a panel discussion where I was asked questions by other members of the panel and the audience.
Times Square, New York - 2011: My film was shown on the large screen as part of New York's international film festival in Times Square.
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Awards​
Best up-and-coming film maker, Vancouver International Film Festival, 2011
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Courses and Mentoring​
Hastings School of Art, Online Development Year 2023-2024
Arts and Health Hub, Mentoring - October 2025- March 2026
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I'm Claire Violet Hanley, a British artist and illustrator working across illustration, painting, film, and digital media. With a highly multidisciplinary background which spans anthropology, global politics and the natural world, I reflect on the nature of being human, the richness of our differences, and the experience of feeling misunderstood, striving to capture the joy that can be discovered within nature and life's complexities. In my work, I explore a range of interconnected themes that reflect both personal and societal narratives. I focus on the untapped potential of individuals with diverse neurological profiles navigating a neurotypical world, while also addressing global security, environmental concerns and the importance of protecting biodiversity. I celebrate playful joy, particularly the unique joys found in neurodivergent experiences.. Additionally, I investigate the power imbalances within the medical establishment, the impact of misdiagnosis, and the realities of living with chronic health conditions. My work seeks to answer what it means to be human, to be different, and to be misunderstood, while finding some joy amidst life's complexities.
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