Graham Clarke
Artist , author and playwright , Graham Clarke , has spent his life creating labours of love that inspire , delight and amuse his audience .
What was it that inspired your journey to become an artist ? From an early age I knew this was to be my work , job , life . I was much encouraged by a kind aunt and uncle who purchased materials , and friends and neighbours who bought my works . I was selling watercolours by the age of nine . My dear wife , Wendy , has always been totally supportive ; any success I ’ ve had I share with her . I ’ ve been inspired by other artists , both famous and ‘ anon ’.
Humour plays a huge part in your creative process . Can you tell us a little about why the comedy in everyday life influences you so much ? Humour can unite people , bringing joy and understanding , helping to ‘ oil the wheels ’ of everyday life . If I see my work bring a smile I feel I ’ ve probably done a good job . I really enjoy looking at life , travel and history through a humorous lens , in my books , plays and artwork . I am an idealist but not a perfectionist . Humour rounds the harder edges of life .
You work in a range of different mediums , including watercolours , etchings and block prints . Why is that ? Different media are there to be explored and possibly provide a living . Alongside making watercolours and sketchbooks , I turned to printmaking realising I could create hand-coloured limited editions and both sell work and keep it . I have always loved this process as everything is produced entirely by hand . I have also worked in stained glass , woodcarving , theatrical scenery , and graphic design .
What is your biggest accomplishment as an artist to date ? Some consider that to make a living as an artist for such a long time is in itself an accomplishment . Certainly having work hanging in homes around the world or hearing it has been enjoyed for many years is wonderful . I am pleased also that the Queen has acquired my works and it hangs on the walls of some palaces .
MUSEUMS & GALLERIES
Where can we see your work ? The best place to see my work is in my studio gallery in Boughton Monchelsea , we open by appointment and we ’ ve always enjoyed welcoming visitors . Or via my website :
grahamclarke . co . uk , Instagram @ graham _ clarke _ artist and Facebook pages
facebook . com / grahamclarkeartist . You can also look out for my work in galleries around Kent and beyond .
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