Today we’d like to introduce you to Clare Watt
Clare, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born and raised in Surrey, UK by English/ Scottish parents. My family didn’t really come from a creative background, but they always encouraged me to pursue the arts. After high school I ended up graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Art from the University of the Creative Arts. During those three years I really had free range to develop my studio practice, from creating screen prints to woodworking, the tutors really encouraged you to explore all mediums. I ended up really focusing on collage and paintings, and in my final year I ended up exhibiting at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition.
After my degree I really started to pursue becoming an artist, taking on multiple commissions and exhibiting in a number of group shows with fellow artists across London. In addition to this I was also working full time in galleries in collection management and registrar positions. More recently I moved to the US because I was excepted into Sotheby’s Institute of Art to pursue a degree in Art Business with a partial scholarship. Since graduating I’ve exhibited in a number of group shows, have been working on the curation of a small group show and have just been accepted into an art residency at Chashama North in Upstate New York.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey definitely hasn’t been linear, I’ve had a lot of struggles with maintaining the balance between my art studio practice and my professional journey. My art practice always suffering because working in galleries always produced more income. In the last year I’ve decided to give 100% to my studio practice and its really paid off.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My practice explores the relationship between art and design. My work is inspired by the philosophy of Bruno Munari, who believed that design is an art form in its own right. Following in his footsteps, I approaches my work with a creative and experimental mindset, seeking to push the boundaries of what is traditionally considered “design.” I work specifically in collage and paint, using a range of 1970’s architecture, design and art magazines to produce my work.
Any big plans?
I have an artist residency in Upstate New York coming up later this year at Chashama North.
I’m currently curating a show for Accessible Objects. https://www.accessibleobjects.com/
I have a few shows coming up in LA and New York, but all to be confirmed in the next few weeks!
Pricing:
- Collages on paper sell for $700 – $1000
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studio.watt/
Image Credits
Headshots : Beatrice Hardy
Artworks: Clare Watt
