Chelsea Clarke Soft Serve

“I collage with textile, print, and found materials to create colorful sculptures that demonstrate resilience, both conceptually and materially. I took an interest in this subject after disability decidedly altered my practice and led me to a more accessible approach that is firmly rooted in craft. Building on the incredible history of fiber, I want to express thoughts about seeking comfort, softness as strength, and the importance of play. Weaving, knitting, sewing, and quilting have become my primary focus, with a number of adaptive tools like my risograph and floor loom brought in to fully articulate each idea. My portfolio has evolved rapidly in the process of adapting to my body’s changing needs and I am excited to see where it will go as I continue to move forward (or maybe sideways).” – Chelsea Clarke

This exhibition will be include a reception and performance on March 24, 2023, at 6 PM. Details forthcoming.

Chelsea Clarke recently completed her MFA at University of Kentucky in Lexington, where she investigated the intersection of print and fiber. Her work centers around themes of perceived contradiction, comfort seeking, and living in a state of recovery. She received her undergraduate degree in Painting & Printmaking from Virginia Commonwealth University, followed by a Post-Baccalaureate in Nonprofit Management with the goal of one day founding a radically accessible artist residency. She currently lives and works in Houston.

Featured image courtesy of the artist.

Established in 2006, the Artist Studio Program offers residencies to Texas-based artists who are developing their artistic practice. Once selected, residents receive a monthly stipend, materials allowance, and 24-hour access to a private studio. Lawndale also provides residents with access to a welcoming and vibrant community of working artists, curators, critics, and patrons of contemporary art. Throughout the nine-month residency, the artists work closely with each other and Lawndale staff on the development and production of new work that will be exhibited at Lawndale in the spring. 

Major support for the Artist Studio Program is provided by Kathrine G. McGovern/The John P. McGovern Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts.