Claire Barclay (born Paisley; 1968) studied at The Glasgow School of Art. Barclay works mainly in sculpture and printmaking. Although the forms she produces are abstract, they are informed by an interest in the material world we live in. Her sculptures frequently employ traditional craft techniques and materials, alongside those associated more with industrial design and production. This is demonstrated in Fallen, which contrasts powder coated steel and machined aluminium with printed silk and leather. 

Barclay has suggested that her sculptures could be thought of as ‘pauses’[1] between their making and dismantling and they appear stilled whilst in action. The works also often suggest tactile relationships to the things that surround us, using the materials with which we clothe ourselves and referring to tools we use, such as combs, but in ways that upset this familiarity, creating disquieting tensions. In Fallen the allure of draped silk meets the sharpness of slit metal and threat of comb sliced leather.

 

[1] National Galleries of Scotland, https://www.nationalgalleries.org/collection/artists-a-z/b/artist/claire-barclay/object/trappings-gma-5522

Glossary

  • Craft

    The creation of handmade objects intended to be both useful and decorative.

  • Design

    The arrangement of elements or details in an artefact or a work of art.

  • Metal

    Metal is a medium frequently used by artists to make art works - from sculpture to printmaking. Surfaces can display an array of colours and textures, and are capable of being polished to a high gloss; metal can be melted, cast, or fused, hammered into thin sheets, or drawn into wire.

  • Sculpture

    A three-dimensional work of art. Such works may be carved, modelled, constructed, or cast. Sculptures can also be described as assemblage, in the round, relief, and made in a huge variety of media. Contemporary practice also includes live elements, as in Gilbert & George 'Living Sculpture' as well as broadcast work, radio or sound sculpture.