At the final summer Art Walk, we will be showing pen and ink illustrations by Bozeman artist Claire Kleese. Reminiscent of Japanese wood blocks and Scandinavian folk art, Claire’s work is at once starkly minimalist and exuberantly detailed. Within a limited color palette, the lovingly executed details of a curling blade of grass, the soft hairs on a fox’s tail, or the delicate lines of a feather draw the viewer into tiny, peaceful worlds in which a riot of detail creates a sense of calm and order. The lack of color only highlights the richly textured and graphic quality of her illustrations, and the occasional pop of rich golden paint or soft wash of pigment provides a luscious counterpoint to otherwise starkly black and white scenes.
Claire grew up drawing the strikingly dramatic natural world around her in the Bitterroot Valley, and is still heavily influenced by wilderness and nature. She loves exploring new and beautiful places for inspiration. When not drawing, she plays in a band and works as a graphic designer.
Claire will be doing a live drawing demonstration during the Art Walk from 6-8pm.You can see more of her work on our website.
