Clarissa Kear, 28 ARIZONA
Style & Inspirations: My work draws from both historical and contemporary influences. Recently, I have been drawn to the atmospheric color and nocturnes of Frederic Remington, as well as the liminality found in paintings by Daniel Sprick.
Art Education: I have a BFA from the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (2018-2022), and I’m currently pursuing an MFA at The University of Arizona that will be completed in 2028.
Best Art Advice Received: My painting teacher Scott Noel at PAFA would often say, “No matter what happens, paint through it.”
Favorite Studio Music: Lately I’ve been listening to new indie folk, especially bands like Wednesday, Friendship and Greg Freeman. When I really need to focus, I usually put on the discography of Kraftwerk or anything with a steady techno beat.
Favorite Work by Another Artist: One of my favorite works by another artist is APARTMENT IN ROME by Zoey Frank. The painting embodies many of the qualities I enjoy most in a painting: a delicate balance between pattern and form, complex spatial perspective, and subtle luminous reflections moving across flat passages of color.
Artistic Goals: My main focus is pursuing my MFA at the University of Arizona and building toward a 2028 thesis exhibition that feels ambitious and deeply rooted in my experience as a painter of the American Southwest, while continuing to pursue new exhibition opportunities.
Other Passions: When I am not in the studio, you can find me plein air painting, playing guitar or hiking in the Sonoran Desert!
Contact Info: clarissakearart.comPrice Range: $300-$8,000
Included in “21 Under 31 | Young Artists to Watch, 2026” from the August/September 2026 issue.
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