Ep.251 Clarke Reynolds - Ministry of Arts Podcast

In this episode Gary Mansfield speaks to Clarke Reynolds (@clarkereynoldsofficial) Born in 1981 in Portsmouth, Clarke Reynolds began his life journey with a unique perspective, one shaped by limited sight and profound resilience.  Despite facing the challenges of domestic violence and alcohol abuse in his childhood, Clarke found solace and expression through drawing. His sketchbook became his sanctuary, a space where he could escape and create.Clarke's artistic path took a pivotal turn when he was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, leading to the eventual loss of sight in his right eye at the age of just 6, since then he has lost the sight in his left eye leaving him with just 5 degrees of vision. These life-altering events steered him away from his career as a dental model maker, but also opened a new door to the world of art. It was through his discovery of textiles that Clarke realised he could translate the tactility of fabrics and the dimension of sound into visual art, crafting pieces that are not only seen but felt. Embracing his journey, Clarke now dedicates his time to creating art in his Portsmouth studio and teaching Braille, including leading a class named after him at London’s Kings Cross Academy. His passion for Braille, a vital tool for 30,000 people in the UK, is evident in his commitment to promoting its benefits. Clarke is represented by Grove Gallery for his original artwork. For more information on the work of Clarke Reynolds go tohttps://clarkereynoldsart.com  To Support this podcast from as little as £3 per month: www.patreon/ministryofarts For full line up of confirmed artists go to https://www.ministryofarts.orgEmail: [email protected] Media: @ministryofartsorg  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.