Brian McClear Discusses Still Life, Wordplay, and Solo Show Still Matters

Key facts

• Brian McClear is an American painter whose still lifes pair everyday objects in unexpected ways.
• His solo exhibition Still Matters recently presented paintings responding to the political landscape and social and environmental concerns.
• Shell Games combines a large seashell with familiar game pieces and is cited as representative of his current practice.
• Shake, Rattle & Roll began with a milkshake mixer found at a neighbor's tag sale and developed from the phrase 'shake, rattle and roll.'
• Ink & Oil is an ongoing portrait series of people who are themselves canvases; Hand of the Father depicts a man named Chris whose tattoos were done by his father, a tattoo artist.
• McClear's background spans illustration, marketing, and technology before he returned to painting full time.
• A formative experience in Florence involved viewing frescoes from the interior catwalk of the Duomo, where loose brushstrokes and bare plaster highlights were visible.
• His work is featured on Singulart, including Spikes & Spears, Tulip & Wrench, and Wing Nut & Maple Seeds.