C. J. CLARE ARTWORKS

The streets of Old Damascus had been systematically lit since the era of the Mamluks in the 13th century, when public servants would fire up and maintain oil sconces on the streets of the old city. The art of making chandeliers and lanterns in Syria started from these early sconces and was developed by artisans into the richly decorated beaded, brass, glass and crystal chandeliers and lanterns for which Syria has been known. Now all destroyed by the civil war. The destruction of this ancient heritage is a tragedy. To honour the people and their culture I've created these small works hoping to capture the light and beauty of an ancient culture. July 2016 Marking Time Art Exhibit at Ardvaark Gallery in Shrewsbury, UK.