Steady devotion touches my heart and underlines my idea that indulging in a passion is a powerful thing. We should all take at least 20-minutes everyday to follow that something which sparks our interest. Erin Clark takes this thought above and beyond. A lover of the sea, an artist grounded by passion, and validation that trusting your intuition will only lead to the inception of beautiful things. Creating each of her pieces with the interior in which they will live in mind and finding inspiration in her coastal upbringing...There is a strong, intentional current running through all that she does. From building a risk-taking career to teaching fine art to students of all ages — it couldn’t be more clear that her love for what she does runs deep.
Erin’s simple and soft creations are an idyllic cross between The New Southern’s minimal and coastal personalities. Unifying her “less is more” mentality together with endless depths of color. Layered, textured, and full of movement. She knows the value in less while continuing to work in a large scale. Understanding the open, airy elements which aim to feel like home — her art is serene and soothing. It has a touch of Scandinavian design and a calming nature of substance over stuff. She paints passion onto the canvas and strokes stories into the lines.
There is so much to be learned from a conscious creator like Erin. Her Northeastern background and thoughtful, uncomplicated approach to design has earned her artwork national recognition and placement — most recently in Atlanta’s Gregg Irby Gallery — and is the kind of fresh take on Southern style that we couldn’t wait to hear more about.
Alyssa Rosenheck: I am thrilled to see your work making its way down South... Tell me about yourself...
Erin Clark: I was born and raised on the Northshore of Massachusetts. The coast has always been my playground, and it’s the backdrop for many of my memories growing up. I love traveling and exploring different places, but I always find myself back in this beautiful landscape, surrounded by the scenes that I live and work in daily. The constant movement of water, the push and pull of the tides, the rich layers and textures found near the sea – that’s where I feel at home. It’s the rhythm that drives my work.
Tidal, 36"x36"
Close to Home, 36"x36"
Evenly, 36"x36"
AR: How are you modernizing / updating Southern style when you design?
EC: I strive to keep my art fresh and current. I try to keep in tune with what is happening in the interior design world…after all, those are the spaces I hope to see my art live in one day. I’m seeing better curated spaces. Spaces where “less is more” are where a great piece of art can really shine! I love uncomplicated, minimalist lines that allow for art and design to express itself fully.
AR: What are your favorite hometown design boutiques?
EC: I am ga-ga over Red Bird Trading Co. in Newburyport, MA. I completely dissolve in that store — it speaks to me in a way that no other space does.
AR: Favorite shade of white and black paint color?
EC: “White Dove” and “Temptation” both by Ben Moore. “Temptation” is is dark and moody, but light and happy all at the same time — yes, it’s a miracle color!!! It’s all over my house…and my art!
AR: What’s your life motto?
EC: A high school art teacher once told me to “Love what you do and you will find a way to make the money”. This has stayed with me and has been the driving force in all of my career decisions. Passion and hustle have yet to fail me!
AR: Any advice for those getting into the business?
EC: Listen to your heart, follow your gut. Cliche?…maybe. True?…undoubtedly. I have made some pretty risky career decisions and so far I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m currently in the midst of my biggest career decision yet and I am trying hard to follow my own advice!
AR: Favorite artist?
EC: Richard Diebenkorn's "Ocean Park" series has forever changed my lens. The endless depth of color and simple compositions of his work could leave me staring for hours. The way I see, feel and create art is greatly influenced by his work.
AR: Tell us something few people know about you.
EC: I own an art school called Artcie that I have dedicated the past 13 years to. We teach fine art to over 100 students per week ranging in age from 4 to adult. I have four ‘rock star’ instructors who are like family to me.
Hattie + Harper, 30"x40" each
AR: What’s your go-to design book right now?
EC: Tricia Guild’s “White Hot” was the first design book I ever purchased. It was this book that made me realize the “art” of interior design.
AR: Do you have a favorite color combo?
EC: Blue and pink are my everything when it comes to color! You will find it in almost all of my work. If it’s not the main palette, it’s usually hidden in there somewhere!
Kick Off To Summer, 36"x48"
Nantucket Bound, 36"x36"
West St, 36"x36"
A Bit More City, 36"x60"
