The Life and Work of Harry Clarke

Book excerpt: Stained glass, Symbolism, Decadence, Celtic mysticism, Art Nouveau and the Ballets Russes - all these elements claim a place in the definition of Harry Clarke. Born a century ago, this Dublin artist, son of an English father and an Irish mother, worked intensely at his art, as if conscious that death would overtake him at an early age. Clarke is now recognized internationally as a bizarre genius of his age, as the Irish Beardsley. This is the story of a questing soul with a complex imagination who produced prolifically and with outstanding originality. His skill and vision has not been equaled and this book is based on a study which won the 1984 CINOA Art History Laureate and is richly illustrated, bringing the range and importance of Clarke's work to general attention.