Gerald Clarke

Fellowship Artist

Fellowship: Diversity And Dialogue (2007)

Cultural Affiliation: Cahuilla

Clarke was born in Hemet, California. He is an enrolled member of the Cahuilla Band of Mission Indians who grew up in both Orange County and on his father’s reservation where he has lived since 2003. Clarke received his Bachelor of Arts in Painting and Sculpture from the University of Arkansas in 1991 and both a Master of Arts (in 1992) and Master of Fine Arts in Studio Arts from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1994. Presently, Clarke is the visual arts chair at Idyllwild Arts Academy, as well as an assistant professor of ethnic studies at the University of California—Riverside. He sculpts, paints in acrylics, and works in whatever medium best suits his particular creation. As inventive and inspired as his artistic approach, Clarke’s art emphasizes the Native American perspective of truth and beauty, and restoration of Native identity and expression.