Interview with Clare Thatcher

Clare Thatcher is a figurative artist whose work is deeply connected to a sense of place. Clare paints landscape features inspired by locations that have had a profound effect on her, taking influence from the idea of liminal space. With a particular focus on tidal and coastal areas, Clare produces soft-hued, multi-textural scenes that capture the mood and sensation of an ever-changing landscape.

We spoke to Clare about the evolution of her practice, the interplay between figurative and landscape, and why a sense of place is crucial to her work.

Take a Breath, 2020, by Clare Thatcher

 

How would you describe your artistic style?

Figurative, abstract.

 

Do you paint from memory or are you representing specific places in your paintings?

I begin with observational drawing in the landscape, an understanding of how things fit together, thinking about place and why I keep returning. I make work deeply connected to a sense of place in response to particular landscape features that have had a profound effect on me mostly in tidal and coastal areas. These sketchbook drawings are then translated to large scale charcoal line drawings in the studio offering up many possibilities for paint, colour. Memory, thought and feelings are all captured and translated in the language of line to my paintings.

Harmony of Place I, 2021, Clare Thatcher

 

What draws you to painting mountainous landscapes?

The scale and the sheer presence of these momentous rock formations with the power of the sea makes me feel so overwhelmed and in awe of the such force of nature.

 

How has your practice evolved over the years?

Going in deeper, asking questions, continually pushing the work, gradually the work has grown up over time. Colour is an important part of the work and is a huge subject, I enjoy the challenges it brings. I love working big and having work selected for recognised art prizes and support from people I trust has given me the confidence and endorsement to keep going.

Vision of Landscape, 2018, Clare Thatcher

 

What’s an average day like in your studio?

I sweep the floor before I begin and at the end of the day. I always have coffee, chocolate and fruit at hand. A comfy chair but not to comfy and music is important to settle my mind. I always have a number of works on the go at the same time this helps with the conversation. I take regular breaks enabling me to focus and step back from the work.

 

How do you come up with the titles for your paintings?

I feel them when making, letting the work speak to me.

I Walk in Beauty, 2021, Clare Thatcher

 

What/Who are your key influences?

Looking at art in museums and galleries. My past tutor and mentor, painter Richard Kenton Webb, foremost British abstract artist Wilhelmina Barns-Graham, colourists Pierre Bonnard and Edouard Vuillard.

 

Who are some Rise Art artists with work you're enjoying at the moment?

Iain Andrews, Enzo Marr and Steph Goodger.

Quiet Space, 2020, Clare Thatcher

 

Are you currently working on any exciting new projects?

I have almost completed a suite of five large scale charcoal drawings as part of my ongoing Spirit of Place series. A particular place, specific selected viewpoints revisited on the North Cornish Coast over the last 12 months.