Clare Phelan

Clare Phelan is a distinguished artist in Yorkshire and the winner of the very first Emerging Artist Awards in 2019. Her artistic practice is deeply rooted in printmaking, where she incorporates etching, collographs, and screen printing techniques using found objects. Clare utilises artefacts from nineteenth and twentieth-century coding technology, such as textile jacquards, music box discs, and IBM punch cards. She perceives these objects as carriers of narrative, where the paper creases and rusty metal evoke memories of their past functionality and the lives of those who used them. “I’ve used a lot of those kinds of materials to often tell stories from the past about ordinary people’s lives,” Clare states, highlighting the connection between her work and the everyday experiences of individuals.

Artistic Background

Clare's journey into the world of art began with an Art and Design foundation course immediately after school. However, she faced challenges in progressing her artistic career and subsequently trained as a psychiatric nurse. Her interest in art therapy flourished during her nursing career, leading her to train and work as an art therapist for over 20 years in the NHS. After completing a part-time Master of Arts in Visual Arts, Clare seized the opportunity to pursue her passion for art full-time. She joined a Hot Bed Press programme in Salford, where she found a supportive environment that helped her exhibit her work. Clare also applied for the Royal Talent Award, which provided invaluable mentoring and further guidance in her artistic journey.

Clare’s work is heavily influenced by the post-industrial landscapes of Northern England, where she has lived all her life. Upon moving to West Yorkshire, she developed a profound connection to the region's industrial heritage, particularly the Yorkshire stone and old mills that once powered the looms. Clare expresses, “I feel a real affinity to West Yorkshire; I love the stone,” noting how her surroundings inspire her creations. Her work often reflects the rugged beauty of the area, capturing the remnants of the past. In addition to her regional inspirations, Clare has produced deeply personal pieces. One significant project involved returning to Ireland, where her parents are from, to create structures from sheep fencing and incorporate telegrams that narrate her family history.

Clare's participation in the Emerging Artist Awards marked a pivotal moment in her artistic career. “It was great validation for me,” she recalls, reflecting on the impact of the award on her confidence and recognition as an artist. This experience opened doors for Clare, allowing her to connect with other artists and art enthusiasts while showcasing her unique perspective and narratives.

Since receiving the Emerging Artist Award in 2019, Clare has continued to thrive in her artistic practice. She has exhibited her work in various prestigious galleries and events across the UK, including Sunny Bank Mills Gallery, York Racecourse, the Manchester Art Fair, and the Hepworth Gallery. Clare's journey post-award has been characterised by a commitment to exploring new themes and techniques, stating, “I want to continue creating new pieces.”

Future Aspirations and Emerging Ambitions

Looking ahead, Clare is eager to expand her artistic repertoire and continue engaging with her local heritage. She hopes to develop new projects that further explore the narratives embedded in the materials she uses. Clare’s ambition is not only to create art that resonates with her audience but also to forge deeper connections with the stories of the past and the cultural fabric of Yorkshire.