Who is Matthew Clarke?
Matthew Clarke is an abstract action style painter from South West Victoria.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Probably no difference – although I dream of being a successful blitz and rapid chess champion.
Who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by my mentors Barry Tate and Glen Morgan who have been around me for the last 13 years. I am also inspired by Basquiat’s use of colour, text and his attitudes to be not bound by the rules of contemporary art.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I started painting wind farms in 2012. It wasn’t a conscious thought to bring environmental themes into my practice but they have flowed into my work. I am still painting wind farms often they are bending in the wind and looking like flowers. I hope this brings a sense of normality to windfarms to the many people who do not believe in climate change.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Castlemaine, Central Highlands Victoria. I have fond memories of going to chess tournaments, art galleries/studios and food.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
We probably would take them to the Great Ocean Road / Port Campbell / 12 Apostles – even though they are also crowded, even on the bleakest day they can look the most beautiful.
What are you currently reading?
I don’t read novels. I do collect chess opening theory books, and I collect books about other artists. I am enjoying reading text in other artist’s work.
What are you currently listening to?
I cannot get the song, Pretty Girl by Maggie Lindemann, out of my head this month.
Happiness is?
Having enough artist paint in my studio, my paint not drying too quick or too slow. I also like getting out with friends for a meal where the subject is nearly always art.
What does the future hold for you?
The immediate future is an upcoming group sculpture exhibition in Subiaco at Mossenson Galleries from 25 September 2018. I am also looking forward to my exhibition at the Fisher Jeffries Gallery in Adelaide as part of the Adelaide Fringe Festival in March 2019. Like everybody else the future is uncertain but I am hoping it will involve paint.
Matthew is the winner of the 2019 Adelaide Fringe Festival Poster Competition. For more information, visit: www.adelaidefringe.com.au for details.
Image: Matthew Clarke (supplied)