Darling Portrait Prize 2024 Finalist
Matthew Clarke
born Australia 1986
Mentor Harley Manifold 2023
synthetic polymer paint on canvas
‘Harley Manifold is a passionate and tireless worker at F Project in Warrnambool, Victoria. I first became aware of him as an artist when he spoke at the Deakin University campus about his practice 12 years ago. He has been a supporter and mentor of mine for a few years. In 2023 he started running his own art classes, bringing his quiet style and refined techniques to many people in Warrnambool. He works with a range of people with and without disabilities. He manages to bring the best out in everybody he works with.’
Matthew Clarke is an artist living and working on Gunditjmara Country in Warrnambool who has been drawing ever since he can remember. Often painting large-scale works, his subjects range from the people who are closest to him to wind farms and windmills, wallabies and cityscapes inspired by travel.
© The artist