Clare Benson

Clare Benson Bio

My starting-point is drawing from observation, usually outdoors, here on Dartmoor, throughout the year. I like to use oil pastels on coloured paper; these landscape studies may lead to studio work in paint, print, collage or textiles.

I am interested in local wild plants and lichens. During 2024 I drew all the wildflowers I could find as they emerged in spring and summer, part of a project with Granite Elements local art group. I also belong to Moorland Makers, and will be showing with them at Ullacombe during Devon Open Studios 2025.

I studied painting at Bath Academy of Art, but taking part in Devon Open Studios, which I first did in 2006, has been crucial in helping me gain confidence and develop as an artist. Since then my work has been shown in locations as varied as Buxton Museum, hospitals in Derby and London, and Yarner Wood Nature Reserve.