The art of artist Clara Martin is one of war between medium and meaning. We often associate textiles with warmth and comfort, occupying a domestic space that provides a feeling of safety, and yet, Martin’s works assail us with words of pain and venom. The artist chooses her words carefully – not just the phrases or quotes, the artist composing short-form poetry through thread – the artist preferring a “big bold serif font”. These literary compositions howl from sweetly crafted quilts and carefully stitched love hearts, the viewer unable to look away from the messages they convey.

Read more in Art Edit 3 May 2024 and 30 May 2022