W-Gallery group exhibition 2016
Clare approaches her art with the eye of a designer.
She is a skilled draftswoman, able to translate Australian landscapes into minimal pictorial elements. She uses flat or textured planes with reduced saturated colours to create balance and order in her works.
For this exhibition Clare has drawn on the bush from her local area and from Lake Tabourie, where her family holidays in the summer. In her paintings she captures these moments of peace and connection with nature. Clare is continuing her “Pathway” narrative, which reflects her view of life being a journey. She has embarked on a series of canopy paintings, magnifying the foliage of trees to create semi-abstract works strong in form and colour, defining the simplicity and calm that she finds in nature.
This showcase illustrates the elements that empower Clare’s art practice, nature, unique colour palettes and thoughtful order.
Newcastle Herald - Kilgour Art Prize Finalists
Kilgour Prize 2016 finalist profile: Clare Brodie
Name: Clare Brodie
Hometown: Karachi PAKISTAN
2016 entry: Watching 2016
Artwork type: Acrylic on canvas, artist collection
About: At my recent exhibition I became absorbed in the groups of people observing my artwork. In Watching I wanted to capture this idea of voyeuristically watching others watching. All are captivated in a collective viewing. By removing the subject of the concentrated gazes, the narrative of the painting is intensified and expectant, reinforcing this precious rare moment in time. I approach my art with the eye of a designer, translating the human figure into minimal pictorial elements and finding the patterns, be they figure or form. I use flat, textured planes to draw attention and to fortify the moment without discordant distraction. Colour in my painting always plays a dominant role. The reduced grey scheme with matte finish reinforces the collectiveness of the figures and the idea of the work embodies an urban sensibility. In contrast, I also wanted to bring the preciousness of a contrasting hue into the heart of the painting – to draw the viewer into the dichotomy of trying to watch collectively without diversion. There is a disparity in watching and wanting to be watched, happening alongside each other in the same moment.
Artist Q&A
1. Have you entered the Kilgour before? If so, what was the work and the result?
2014 with a portrait Holiday, 2016 with a group of young adults Watching
2. Is this piece for sale and if so, at what price?
Watching $3300
3. What is your preferred/favourite style of painting/making art and why?
I am a painter who values simplicity, balance and highly considered colour schemes. I like to redesign pictorial elements with the use of flat or textured planes in reduced palettes and striking combinations to create balance and order.
4. Who has been the most influential person in your art career and why?
I was fortunate to do a Summer school with Adam Cullen at the National Art School which totally rocked my world. Under Adam's tuition I created some solid art works which sold in the final exhibition- I asked Adam did he think I could be an artist and he said yes, but only to do it if I really had to- which as it turns out, I did.
5. What advice would you give to a person considering a career in art?
Create a designated studio, set aside sacred uninterruptible time- delve deep into your art practice to find your authentic style. Use social media and find opportunities to exhibit. Art demands full immersion- just don't forget to breathe.
See the article in full here: www.theherald.com.au[/vc_column_text][/vc_column]
