About the artist:

A native of Virginia, William H. Clarke enjoys portraying the rural life of his homeland. He is a self-taught artist who works mostly in mixed media. He strongly believes his talent is a gift from God.

William's paintings have been exhibited at the Science Museum of Virginia in Richmond, and are currently on display at the Visual Arts Center in Farmville, Virginia.

In the 1999 Heart of Virginia Festival in Farmville, he took first place, winning the Visual Arts Award and third place for oil and acrylic painting. William won second place in the 1999 Mineral Springs Festival in Brunswick County, Virginia.

Three of William's paintings are part of an Exhibit and Collection of art collector Julia J. Norrell. The exhibit, Myth, Memory, and Imagination, is the universal theme in the life and culture of the south. The exhibit features more than 200 pieces of folk and fine art.

The Parlor Gallery was chosen for the making of the movie, Double Platinum, which aired on ACE in May of 1999. A McFarland Production, the movie starred Diana Ross and Brandy. Some of William's paintings were used for background.

Artist Statement

"My memories of growing up in Nottoway County, Virginia often cross my mind.  Memories of the simple way of life.  When 8 cents could buy you a cold soda.  When the only toy needed was a tin can to kick or a tire to push.  Where you got your religion the old fashioned way – in old wooden churches.  It was when fellowship was true and people were God fearing.  For God created the rising and setting of the sun, and with His hands God sprinkled snowflakes softly over countryside.

It is memories of my baptism in an old muddy pond, and the rural life of Southside Virginia I try to reflect in my God given talent."