Artist Statement and Bio
ARTIST STATEMENT
As an artist deeply engaged in the exploration of authorship and the intricate narratives of our lives, my work serves as a visual tapestry woven from threads of education, aspiration, courage, perseverance, and beauty. Each piece is a testament to the journey we all undertake, reflecting the myriad factors that shape our identities and outcomes.
Central to my artistic process is the method of layering and juxtaposition. I begin with a foundational layer that speaks to belonging, followed by a quilting layer crafted using handmade stamps, which adds depth and texture. This is succeeded by a flourishing layer of paint, culminating in an authentic expression through stream of consciousness writing. This deliberate layering reflects the acceptance of our past—acknowledging that yesterday shapes today.
The resulting compositions feature raised paint and rich textures that transform the surface into a visual language of tattoos and scarification, symbolizing the indelible marks of our experiences. Each layer embodies a story, an event, a moment of creation, subtraction, and retrieval that collectively defines the self.
My work resonates with my philosophy of life: “hidden histories lie beneath the surface of our current existence,” and “progress is forged through the lessons learned from our past; there is no path back to yesterday.” Through this lens, I invite viewers to engage with the complexities of their own narratives, encouraging a dialogue that transcends mere observation and fosters a deeper understanding of the human experience.
BIO
Clayton Singleton is a dynamic force in the realms of verbal and visual art, exuding a palpable passion that resonates with everyone he encounters. A resident of Virginia, Clayton's work serves as a source of inspiration, motivation, and education for diverse audiences. He earned his Bachelor of Arts and PreK-12 certification in Art Education from Virginia Wesleyan University, followed by a Master of Education from Regent University.
Clayton’s commitment to the arts extends beyond traditional education; he actively engages with teenagers, community organizations, and children on the autism spectrum. His creativity has shone through in notable projects, such as designing sets for The Virginia Opera’s productions of *Porgy and Bess* and *Freedom’s Journey*. His leadership roles include serving on the Norfolk Arts Commission, the d’ART Center Board of Directors, and currently, as a board member of The Hermitage Museum and Gardens.
His artistic contributions have garnered attention in prestigious publications, including *The Virginian-Pilot*, *Distinction Magazine*, *Time*, and *The New York Times*. Recently, he was honored as an artist-in-residence at The Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts in St. Croix, USVI.
Clayton's excellence in education has been recognized multiple times, earning him the title of Teacher of the Year five times—once at both the elementary and middle school levels, and three times at the high school level. Most recently, he was awarded Norfolk Public Schools’ City-Wide Teacher of the Year for 2023-2024.
His artistic footprint includes participation in group exhibitions at esteemed venues such as The Chrysler Museum of Art, the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, and The Barry Art Museum, as well as The Hermitage Museum and Gardens. He has also created public murals, received numerous accolades, and played an active role as a juror and curator for various solo and group exhibitions. Additionally, Clayton is set to join the Zawadi International Artists Exchange, traveling to Amsterdam, Paris, and Nairobi, Kenya in 2024, further expanding his artistic horizons and global impact.
