I am interested in the relationship between the landscape and the body and in the changes that surfaces undergo when affected by time, by growth and decay or the processes that the materials pass through. We humans are also subject to these changes and for this reason I often use natural materials in my sculptures which give them the same transitory existence as ourselves.

I have begun to use glass in my work as I am interested in the possibilities of a solid yet transparent material. I like the contrast of the glass when juxtaposed with materials taken from the rural landscape and the concept of vision and alternative perspectives that this adds to the sculpture.

Valerie Clarke has been a practising artist and sculptor for 10 years. She has been artist in residence for English Heritage and has conducted workshops for adults and children across a range of activities. Her work has been exhibited nationally in galleries and sculpture trails and is in private collections in the UK. She is a lecturer in English and Creative Writing and is also a published writer. She has a 1st class degree in English Studies from Manchester Metropolitan University and a PGCE in Post 16, Adult and Further Education.

Tree climbers, soil, muslin, grass, petals, leaves, feathers, wood and PVA 220 x 90cm
Monk, wire, soil, straw and PVA 110 x 60 x 55cm
Gazing figure, wire, soil, glass and PVA 120 x 60 x 50 cm

E: valerie@valerieclarke.co.uk