Mark Clarke – Shelf Life: The Ornaments Are Talking To Me

In a series of surprisingly cheery assemblage sculptures, Belfast born artist Mark Clarke ponders the theme of life, love and loss. Using familiar mantlepiece ornaments, junk shop tat and car boot treasures, these poetic interpretations of the homemade shrine explore dementia, obsession, good and bad taste, collecting and fine art versus outsider art. Clarke will also construct a special festive shelf that showcases objects from the world class collection at The Bowes Museum.